About the artist: Maxine Gadd was born Maxine Saunders, in the county of Worcestershire, England, October 14th 1962.

Her painting ability became obvious from the age of three. Yet, unlike the usual scribbles of one so young, her drawings often reflected more detailed and easily recognizable forms.

A shy child, she much preferred drawing than to playing with friends; getting through more pencils, paints and paper than could be afforded!

In 1967 her family decided to emigrate to Australia, seeking a much more rewarding lifestyle. Maxine’s art was first exhibited at school and then at community art shows, where her early abilities won recognition through winning both first and second awards. She began selling her work at the age of 12.

Being a non-conformist, Maxine chose to leave school when she reached 15, despite both teachers and mentors urging her to develop this extraordinary talent through university.

Not quite sure of the future, she decided to explore the field of graphic design at technical college. But very soon, this in itself became too restricting. Her work was becoming contrived and lacked excitement. She left college within that first year. At that time, she focused more on her own private world of art, whilst earning a living at casual jobs here and there.

However, being ever restless, Maxine again longed to be involved with art and fellow artists, and even though college had been restrictive in the past, she decided to give it another try. After three years full study, she achieved a Diploma in Graphic Design, also winning the coveted and prestigious 'John Lunghi Award for Outstanding Artistic Design'.

Maxine was to briefly meet her future husband Will (Gadd) at that same college, who was a part time student. By pure chance they met again some time later, and after a brief courtship they became married. Owing to his support, both emotional and financial, Maxine was able, for the first time ever, to devote everything to her art.

It was during their honeymoon in fact, that Maxine began working on a fairy book titled 'Chrysella'. It was this book that brought her Faery Art into focus.

Although Maxine paints many subjects, it is the Fairies, Mermaids and the mysterious, that people most want to see. Often they say, "That’s what a real fairy looks like!"

8.5" high x 11" wide print with clear sleeve protective cover.

Item #FRMGP9016