My name is Joan Bideau.

I’m Joan Bideau, an artist from Burnley, Lancashire. My journey with art has been a lifelong passion, particularly in pottery and painting. In the 1970s, I co-founded a pottery business called ‘Rosseau’ with my dear friend, Joyce Ross. Together, we created unique hand-thrown pottery pieces, from figurines to decorative items, which were showcased in local exhibitions and markets.

During the COVID-19 lockdown, life presented me with one of its most challenging chapters. I moved in with my beloved sister, Sheila, to care for her during her serious illness. To cope with the emotional toll and keep my creative spirit alive, I set a goal to create a painting each day after Sheila had settled for the evening. This daily practice became a source of solace and resulted in a deeply meaningful collection of work.

After Sheila’s passing, I felt compelled to honor her memory in a special way. I organized an art exhibition titled “For Love of Sheila” at Cliviger Village Hall. This event showcased my paintings and included live demonstrations, serving as a tribute to my sister and a reflection of the love and bond we shared.

Art has always been a source of joy, resilience, and connection in my life. Through my work, I hope to celebrate the beauty of creativity and the profound relationships that shape who we are.