About E. Frances Turton​​

Art and design has always been part of Turton's life, but her passion for Italy only developed in 1994 after her first trip to Venice, followed by a chance meeting in '95 with a fellow artist who extended an invitation to Rome. Turton soon realised that she felt more at home in Rome than anywhere else and enjoys the idea that she might actually be descended from Roman soldiers who invaded England - close to her hometown, the nearby city of Derby (Derventio) was settled by the Romans around 46 AD and occupied until around 120 AD.  

Turton studied Life Drawing at Green Lane School of Art, and Graphic Design, but is otherwise self-taught and began her career with several years of freelance design projects, but when her mother became ill she preferred to spend more time at home providing care while other family members worked. After many years away, a serious accident gave her a fresh chance to return to the art world and more recently she has reawakened her old fascination of textiles, discovering a talent for creating striking collages. 

Turton has a discreet following of admirers of her unusual styles, which is slowly growing, with pieces represented in private collections worldwide. 

With writer husband, and feral cat (named after her favourite composer – Wolfgang [Mozart]), Turton divides her time between Rome and a medieval village - "a quiet haven, ideal for getting inside ones own head. I'm often overwhelmed with ideas and inspiration so this little oasis of calm is perfect!" - plus frequent trips to her beloved Venice.

Turton admits she doesn't exhibit as often as she should but is working to change that, with new pieces, which will be available to the public in 2107.  ​