About Peter Hemming

If in April 2000 someone had told me that I would be living on a Greek island in 12 months time I wouldn't have believed them. But now at the beginning of 2007 and nearly 6 years on, I'm still here. It wasn't planned, and there still are no plans. Some things can stay forever, or change overnight!

In April 2001 I came for a summer painting holiday. I stayed on! In May 2002 I opened The Gallery, 4 years later I closed it. I didn't really plan that either.

My 2007 summer exhibitions attracted many visitors, as did The Gallery....and many questions!

Peter Hemming

How long were you in Kefalonia?

From April 3rd 2001 to November 2007.

What made you decide to move out to Kefalonia?

In the book Captain Corelli's Mandolin, there is a paragraph about the light. I saw the light and decided I liked it. I did my homework and decided to go for it! Pamela and I found it difficult to live apart, the phone bills were getting ridiculous, so her decision to come here was easy.

What did you do before you moved to Kefalonia?

I was doing jobs that really couldn't fulfil my inner self. Artistically, I'd been involved with local groups, I exhibited solo. With Kefalonia, two things were in place, the opportunity was there and the circumstances were right. I am often asked whether I painted in England. I've painted on and off for years since I was young, but never professionally.

What do you love most about Kefalonia?

I love the natural beauty of Kefalonia. In my experience the natural beauty is matched only by the warmth and welcoming nature of the majority of the local people. The natural beauty of the island is stunning, especially out of high season. Anybody wanting to see the amazing colours should come in May, it's also less crowded then.
The Kefalonians are nice people too, that helps!

Do you have a favourite Kefalonian place?

No, it's all so nice. It's a beautiful island and begs to be painted.

What has been your biggest challenge?

In the initial weeks that I was here it was a bit of a minefield, but I trod carefully!

Pamela & Peter Hemming

Would you have done anything differently?

I would have learnt to swim more competently, the sea here is so beautiful. I can always paddle though!

Do you miss anything and if so, what do you miss most and why?

I miss being able to see my children on a regular basis. I miss a good pint of real ale. I miss live music. I miss the Sunday Times in the winter months. I miss good art galleries. I miss travelling by train (is it getting better?). But there is so, so much here to compensate for most of the 'misses'!

I'm thinking of going to live in Kefalonia, can you give me some advice?

Yes. Wherever you live now don't sell up. Come and live here for at least a year, and get an information pack from the Greek consulate.

What music do you like?

Van Morrison, Miles Davis, Mahler and so much more.

What's your favourite tipple?

Good real ale and red wine

What is your favourite place in the world?

Malpas, Cornwall, UK

Do you speak Greek?

I'm sorry, I didn't hear you!