Another artist whose love and knowledge of animals and birds fuels her work is the ceramic sculptor ANNA NOEL.  From an early age she learnt respect and an intuitive connection with animals through their actual beings but also through stories and folklore.  Much of her inspiration comes from the formal simplicity of ancient sculpture as well as folk art within a variety of cultures.  Through her sensitive modelling of the clay. Anna conveys the special relationship mankind has always had with animals – despite their innate ‘otherness’.  Her subtle painting of the sculptures enhances their individuality and strong presence.