Aston artist Clare Hoath swaps financial spreadsheets for paintbrushes

Inspired by the countryside around Aston and the vibrant life of nearby Henley, Clare Hoath has turned a love of painting into a creative career, with impressionist classes now opening the door for budding artists.

There are worse places to look for inspiration than right here. For artist Clare Hoath, the rolling countryside, river views and colourful gardens around the pretty village of Aston provide an ever-changing palette for her paintings.

“I don’t like to limit myself to a single style, subject, or set colour palette,” says Clare. “There’s so much to try and experiment with.”

Now 51, Clare previously worked in sales and marketing in the financial services sector. She first picked up a paintbrush after the birth of her first child, while temporarily between jobs, and quickly discovered a passion that has stayed with her ever since.

Determined to develop her skills, she joined local classes and art groups, borrowed instructional books from the library and experimented with different mediums. She even tried sculpting, gradually building her own creative practice along the way.

Today, Clare paints part-time, selling her work through Instagram, art fairs, exhibitions and private commissions. She has also recently branched out into teaching, launching a beginners’ art class for anyone keen to learn how to paint in an impressionist style.

“I love connecting with people on Instagram,” she says.

Clare lives with her husband and has two grown-up sons, plus a white, fluffy Cavapoo who apparently has very firm opinions about exercise.

“He might just be the world’s largest and neediest,” she laughs. “He’s adorable, but he is firmly against very long walks and will literally sit down the moment he’s had enough.”

When he’s feeling cooperative, the pair enjoy following the river into Henley, a walk of about 50 minutes, or heading along the Thames Path.

Clare attended Henley College, so the area has always felt like home. She loves being close enough to enjoy Henley’s lively social scene while still having the peace and space of village life.

“It is incredibly beautiful, and the stunning views provide endless inspiration for my painting,” she says. “You can enjoy all the vibrant festivities of Henley right on your doorstep, yet you can be back in the peace of your own garden within ten minutes.”

Her local favourites reflect that blend of countryside charm and town life. The Vintage Shop in Henley is a regular haunt for antiques, bric-a-brac and vintage jewellery, while The Flower Pot in Aston is the family’s go-to pub, whether for its summer garden, winter log fire or Sunday roast.

For something a little more glamorous, the bar at The Relais Henley is a favourite for drinks before or after an evening out.

Clare is also a regular at the Kenton Theatre, particularly enjoying comedy. She has seen Jack Dee and Milton Jones, with Rory Bremner next on her list.

Beyond painting, she attends life-drawing sessions at White Waltham Village Hall and enjoys swimming and tennis at Phyllis Court. Hennerton Golf Club provides another excuse to get outdoors, while she and her husband are hoping to try the new padel courts at Wargrave Tennis Club.

For Clare, the combination of countryside, community and culture continues to provide inspiration both on and off the canvas.

To follow her work, find her on Instagram at @clarehoathart. For information about her painting classes, email clarehoathart@gmail.com.

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