As soon as he left school Doug worked in a draughtsman’s office until in 1989 he attended
a technical drawing exhibition. Fascinated with the skill of technical illustration he applied for the course despite having none of the required qualifications – an early example of his tenacity as far as talent and artistic ambition were concerned. His positivity was rewarded when an exception was made and he was accepted on
the basis of his portfolio of artwork which was judged to be outstanding. Doug passed with distinction
and set out on a career in illustration, specialising in airbrush artwork, brimming with a new confidence and excitement. The work he produced at this time was beautifully composed with meticulous attention to detail, essential qualities for the presentation of accurate technical artwork.
Doug was proud of his professional success, yet he quickly became restless. He was using his artistic talent every day, but his imagination was fettered by restrictive briefs and his creative flair was simply not allowed to shine through.