Black Pearl Studio was created in remembrance of Iona’s late horse, Black Pearl - whose loss led her to begin sharing her work with others, allowing people to connect with what she creates.
After creating a painting for her best friend’s wedding, Iona realised how much she valued sharing her work with others.
The response she received was incredible, and it gave her the confidence to step into the role of an artist.
Iona grew up in Winchester, Hampshire, and from an early age was drawn to creativity and a strong love for animals. Born on 13th April 2002, her connection to horses became something that would go on to shape her path.
What began as a love for horses soon became the starting point for her artwork; first painting them, before gradually moving into something more expressive, capturing emotion, moments, and the things others love as much as she does to animals.
Alongside her full-time role as a Crane mechanic on a dockyard, Iona dedicates her spare time to growing her business, with the aim of one day making it her full-time career.