MY INNER WORLD

Hi, I'm Kris, and creativity has always been a constant in my life. With a background in graphic design, I spent years working as a designer and art director in London before taking on a variety of different roles, including delivering post and working in a shop

As an introvert, I created the name BG&ZEE as a gentle shield — a space where I can step back from the noise of the world while letting my art step forward. I see my introversion not as a weakness, but as a quiet superpower: the ability to focus deeply, listen to the whispers of my imagination, and thrive in solitude. In a world often dominated by louder voices, calm allows me to channel emotions into my work, creating animal characters that carry moods, stories, and a touch of mystery.

Each piece is an invitation into my inner world — a place of freedom, honesty, and connection — where you can pause, reflect, and perhaps see your own story mirrored in theirs. Through all these experiences, one thing remained: my love for art, especially the simplicity and power of black and white. By drawing images on clean white backgrounds, I ensure the subject is always the star of the composition.

Graphite pencil is my medium of choice because it gives me control, precision, and the ability to capture the smallest details with care and patience. I love the contrast of light and shadow, and my appreciation for black-and white photography and old movies is reflected in my work.

Nature is my greatest source of inspiration. I spend much of my time in the Derbyshire countryside, walking with my dog and taking in the beauty of the landscape. These quiet moments spark my best ideas, allowing me to create art that captures the textures, emotions, and spirit of the natural world.

My subjects are often animals—perhaps because of the emotional connection I feel, but also because I love the challenge of rendering the texture of fur and feathers. I also have a soft spot for bears, and my old teddy bear, now 54 years old, is the “BG” in BG&ZEE.

Beyond art, I have a passion for reading, learning, and writing. I’m a frequent visitor to the library. I’m also a dedicated football fan, holding a season ticket for Derby County and watching more matches than I should!

Trust, honesty, independence, respect, and reliability are the values that guide me in life and in my work. Art is my way of connecting, telling stories, and capturing the world as I see it. Welcome to my creative space.

I hope my work resonates with you as much as it does with me.

Quiet is my strength, and through solitude, I listen - and my animal characters speak.

It is my safe place where art becomes my voice.

You are invited into the stories that live within my art.