My drawings explore the ways in which as adults we are still fascinated to some extent by stories of mythical creatures, nonetheless, it is undeniable that we gradually lose aspects of that kind of imagination as we grow. These kind of creatures abound in myths and legends from throughout the world, and are classic examples of human creativity. Some of the very earliest artwork in the world which contains such animal figures are Chinese cave paintings which depict animals as both part of daily life and as sacred symbols. Myths inspired by animals gradually become integrated as part of a spiritual framework. The works here draw on the animal images of dragons and snakes as described in the Shan Hai Jing as this seems to me to evoke exactly the kind of imaginative interpretation which so intrigues me. Chinese dragons are unique in a sense because they act as rulers of the ocean, fight against other gods, and turn into human beings and vice versa. They are also considered to symbolise wisdom, success and strength. Thus these drawings focus on exploring the relationship between nature and imagination through my twin passions for mythology and animals. I work in monochrome employing a time consuming technique, and whilst working on these I compared the challenge of drawing textures to the challenge of dealing with interpersonal relationships, exploring the concept of diversity. I invite my viewers to let their imagination wander in my work.