Vivienne trained in printed textiles at Leicester Polytechnic College. Her working career began as a freelance designer of printed carpets; during this period she began teaching art and design in Further Education, which then led to becoming Head of Department for Art and Design, working full-time in Further Education for 26 years in total. During her teaching career she painted and exhibited as time allowed. She began painting professionally in 2005.
She is a member of The Royal Birmingham Society of Artists (RBSA) and the Leicester Society of Artists (LSA).
She runs workshops at her studio, demonstrates to art groups and societies around the UK and exhibits at numerous national events. Her passion lies in painting flowers and portraits in watercolour.