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Ava Robson. © Ava
Hi, I’m Ava Robson, a 15-year-old from Cobham, Surrey, and a grade 9 student at ACS Cobham International School.
Art has always been my passion and how I make sense of the world and share my thoughts and feelings. I’m inspired by nature, especially animals, and love the work of Beatrix Potter for how she brings small creatures to life. Watercolours are my favourite medium because of how the colours blend and create unexpected effects.
Having my painting in Elmbridge’s Moving Art exhibition is such an amazing experience. This opportunity feels like a significant milestone in my artistic journey and I hope to keep growing as an artist and one day go to art school.
Art has always been my passion. It’s more than a hobby or a school subject; it’s my way of interpreting the world and expressing feelings that are often hard to put into words. Creating art helps me process emotions, gives me a sense of accomplishment, and serves as a kind of safe haven. When I’m working on a piece, I feel a deep sense of calm and focus, and for a while, the noise of the world fades away. In many ways, art has become my way of connecting with others and sharing how I see the world.
In the Forest. © Ava
The natural world has always been a huge source of inspiration for me. I’m especially drawn to animals and the tiny, intricate details of plants and landscapes. I’ve admired Beatrix Potter since I was very young. Her ability to bring small, beautiful creatures to life on the page resonates with me. I love how she portrayed animals with so much personality and respect, making them feel almost human. Like her, I aim to capture not just the physical appearance of the animals I paint but also a sense of their spirit.
I’m fascinated by light and colour and how they can evoke different moods and emotions. Watercolour is my preferred medium because of its fluidity and unpredictability. I enjoy the challenge of working with watercolours; they teach me to embrace imperfections and let the paint guide me. There’s something magical about watching colours blend and spread on the paper, creating textures and effects I hadn’t planned but often love the most.
Feels Electric. © Ava
School has been a challenging environment for me, and I’ve often struggled with anxiety, particularly in social situations. Art has been my anchor through these experiences. When the world feels overwhelming, painting helps me regain a sense of control and purpose. It’s a way to escape, but it’s also a way to engage—to turn inward and create something meaningful to share with others.
Art is also the area where I’ve received the most encouragement and praise, which has been incredibly validating. Knowing that people connect with what I create gives me confidence and motivates me to keep exploring and growing as an artist. While I’m still developing my style, I’ve found that my best work comes when I’m true to myself and paint what I’m passionate about.
In the future, I hope to continue studying art and eventually attend art school. The idea of dedicating myself entirely to something I love is both exciting and reassuring. I’m eager to learn new techniques, explore different mediums, and push the boundaries of what I can create.
While I’m inspired by nature and the works of artists like Beatrix Potter, I also want to develop my unique voice as an artist and find new ways to communicate my thoughts and emotions through my work.
Background image: Sauver nos âmes. © Ava
Right: Out into the Open. © Ava
Go with a Bounce. © Ava
Being part of the Elmbridge’s Moving Art exhibition is an incredible opportunity, and I’m grateful for the chance to share my art with the community.
Exhibiting my work alongside other talented artists is inspiring and reminds me of the power of art to bring people together. It’s amazing to think that something I’ve created could resonate with someone else and perhaps make them see the world a little differently.
To everyone who has supported me along the way—my family, teachers, and friends—thank you for believing in me and encouraging me to follow my passion.
Art is not just something I do; it’s who I am, and I’m excited to see where this journey takes me next.
