I grew up in Germany where from an early age my family encouraged me to paint and to develop my artistic talents. I specialised in portrait drawing, wood, clay sculpture and silk painting. 25 years ago I moved to Ireland, having met and married an Irishman, and we settled in Kinlough, Co Leitrim. The family home where we raised our two children is a converted cottage that, over time, has become a unique building filled with unusual touches. The living room floor features a mosaic of 28000 pieces: "Renate's masterpiece", a labour of love and patience. Being environmentally conscious, we planted thousands trees in shelterbelts and mixed woodlands around our home. We farmed and developed a successful purebred Charolais herd.

Inspired by the beauty of the Irish countryside, I started painting scenes of nature on silk - a material I love working with because of its strength, soft flow and versatility. In the beginning, I designed for family, friends and for special commissions. In 2000 the World Congress of the Irish Charolais Cattle Society commissioned me to paint 3 flags and 150 silk ties for the worldwide delegates.

My designs capture the magic of my environment. I create underwater scenes and views of mountain ranges, lakes, and rivers. I paint flowers, fairies and Celtic designs on wall hangings, window screens, pictures, ties, shirts and scarves. Working from home, I supply a select range of upmarket shops. In 2006 I became a member of the Leitrim Design House where my collection of beautiful, flowing chiffon and silk scarves are in big demand.