My current obsession with Sumi ink on paper combines the idea of drawing with the freedom of expression of a brush and water. I only use Sumi inks ground from a stick rather than liquid ink, this connects the medium to an ancient craft of ink making as is still practised in China over familial lines harking back generations.

I have a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature from the University of California, Los Angeles, and a Master’s degree in Media Studies from the University of Auckland; I also have a Graduate Diploma in Secondary teaching and I teach English, Media Studies, and Design at Waiheke High School. I am also an avid learner of te reo Māori. My current work mostly alternates between figurative pieces and abstractions and can be seen on Instagram at http://instagram.com/simpson.studio1b