The Algarve Collection

Introduction

The Algarve Collection brings together the vibrant contemporary artwork of Algarve artist Alyson Sheldrake and her award-winning Algarve-based books, combined with the atmospheric photography of her husband, professional Algarve photographer Dave Sheldrake.

Inspired by the landscapes, coastline and villages of southern Portugal, this collection celebrates the beauty and character of the Algarve through paint, digital art, books and photography.

How The Algarve Collection began…

Little did we realise, over fifteen years ago when we packed up everything and moved from the UK to Portugal, that what were then merely our hobbies and interests would ultimately evolve into something far more significant.

At the age of 11, my parents bought me a Kodak Instamatic 33 camera, a basic point and shoot film camera which I instantly fell in love with. I think they regretted the decision as they not only paid for all the film I used but also the processing at the local Boots store in our hometown of Exmouth. I was limited to one film a month, tough days! It didn't take long to become an addict. I started buying photography magazines and going to exhibitions of well-known photographers' work, including my photography hero, Don McCullin. And then I joined the police…

My wife, Alyson, had studied art and English literature at ‘A’ level before completing a degree in sport and a teaching qualification, but our careers, both in the police and latterly in senior education roles for Alyson, left little time for us to pursue our hobbies.

I finally retired from the police in 2008, aged 52, and my wife, whom I love as much as my camera gear! took me out the day after I retired and purchased a Canon EOS5D Mk2, the latest Canon digital full frame (35mm equivalent) and several lenses and other toys so I could pursue my hobby in retirement.

And then we moved to Portugal, to the beautiful Algarve. To a picturesque fishing village called Ferragudo. And finally, we had time. Time to pursue our interests, dabble our toes in the exciting waters of the self-employed creative world, and see what happened.

Click on any of the picture banners throughout this article to find out more…

Algarve Art and Photography

I think both of us would be honest and say we had no idea how successful our creative endeavours would be. I added myself on Facebook as a photographer and did a project called Portugal 365. It made me go out with my camera every day to take photos, and the best photo of the day would go on my FB page. One image garnered over 55,000 views overnight! At the end of the first year, we decided to try an exhibition of our joint work, but didn't know where or how, so we punted a request out on Facebook. Within 10 minutes, the very lovely Vicki Good from the Holiday Inn at Armação de Pêra offered us her hotel as she had been following our work.

The rest, as they say, is history. From my photographing luxurious villas, stunning weddings, and creating memories to last a lifetime with a camera in hand, to Alyson, paintbrush always at the ready, easel never without a prepped board on the go. Over 275 paintings completed – and all sold. And every original painting begins with one of my photographs, which she transforms into a vibrant contemporary painting.

The result is a truly collaborative creative process that sits at the heart of The Algarve Collection.

Free Newsletter

The other thing we committed to very early on - from June 2012 – every month – without fail – we sent out a little newsletter. What began as a small, 4-page PDF sent to a handful of friends turned into a much-loved and eagerly anticipated free monthly newsletter with so many loyal subscribers. For a while, it even morphed into a giant 100+ page magazine, but it has now calmed down into a sensible monthly email offering full of photographs, art, books, news, reviews, recipes, rescue dogs, and the monthly antics of our rescue dog, Zara.

Alyson Sheldrake – Award-winning Algarve Author

And then came the books. Alyson has always been an avid reader, and she had a dream of writing her own book about our life here in the western Algarve.

A series of Algarve memoirs about our life here, followed by a travel stories series incorporating almost 50 different authors from around the world, led Alyson to her breakthrough book. The story that changed everything. The story of our darling rescued Spanish water dog, Kat.

Kat the Dog by Alyson Sheldrake

Kat the Dog became an international, multi-award-winning bestseller. This is a wonderful, heartfelt animal memoir, highlighting the plight of rescued and abandoned dogs. Alyson’s new release, The Rainbow Bridge, is a magical fantasy story designed to help heal the hearts of those who have lost a beloved pet and is suitable for all animal lovers.

Algarve Digital Art inspired by Dave Sheldrake Photography

And then Alyson came full circle. She began looking at all my beach and landscape photographs again. The ones I produce whenever I have five minutes to escape with my camera. She had the idea of using my images to create digital art, inspired by the traditional paintings of the Old Masters.

Using my original photographs as the starting point, Alyson now has an ever-expanding series of digitally enhanced artworks inspired by the expressive brushwork of artists such as Monet, van Gogh, and Turner, blending modern technology with her artistic vision.

The result? Modern prints for you to enjoy, celebrating the beauty of the Algarve.

My landscape and beach photographs, prints of Alyson’s original paintings, digital art, and unique photoshoots on a deserted beach at sunset – all these creative projects capturing the stunning Algarve region we are so proud to call home. Today we live in Aljezur on Portugal's spectacular west coast, surrounded by the wild beaches of the Costa Vicentina. The dramatic cliffs, rolling Atlantic waves, and peaceful villages continue to inspire our artwork, photography, and writing every day.

Art Prints: Alyson & Dave Sheldrake

If you are looking to adorn the walls of your home or office with high-quality art prints - look no further! Or if you are an interior designer looking for that special something to complete a stylish room, click the link here:

Portrait Sessions - Dave Sheldrake Photography

If you need an experienced photographer who can capture a memory of your special time here in Portugal, I pride myself on capturing natural, relaxed portraits that tell a visual story you will cherish:

Property Photography - Dave Sheldrake Photography

Or perhaps you require compelling, crisp, and professional imagery that will help your property stand out from the crowd. I use the latest technology and techniques to highlight your property’s unique features, creating a visual story that will inspire and captivate potential buyers, holidaymakers, or tenants. High-quality HDR images and promotional videos will ensure your listings stand out in a competitive market:

Life in the Algarve…

Or maybe you are just curious about what it is really like to live here, surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, with traditional villages scattered through the countryside, each vying with the busier hustle and bustle of the main tourist towns, with glorious soft-sand beaches, delicious local food, stunning sunsets and a more peaceful, relaxed way of life…

This is why we created The Algarve Collection

Alyson and I each see the Algarve through fresh eyes. She captures its atmosphere in bold contemporary paintings and digital artwork and shares our love for all things Algarve in her writing, while I record its natural beauty through my professional photography. Together, our work offers a unique celebration of one of Europe's most beautiful regions.

Who is The Algarve Collection for?

Homeowners

Looking for beautiful Algarve artwork and photographs...

Interior Designers

Searching for unique statement pieces...

Holiday & Rental Homeowners

Who require professional photography...

Lovers of the Algarve

Books, prints and gifts celebrating everything Portugal and the Algarve has to offer...

Whether you're looking for original artwork, fine art photography, award-winning books, bespoke interior design pieces, or simply a glimpse into life in Portugal's beautiful Algarve region, we hope The Algarve Collection inspires you.

Browse the pages, discover our stories, and let us share our Algarve with you.