Lys studied drawing and painting and graduated from Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art in the early seventies then qualified as an art specialist in secondary education. After working for some time in mainstream, Lys spent many happy and fulfilling years teaching art in Special Education.

Lys is happiest on a deserted Scottish beach, a field or glen, surrounded by colour and texture, finding endless inspiration in the interplay of land, sea and sky, light and weather. She is excited, calmed, always moved by a transient mood and is compelled to celebrate her involvement visually. She uses oils, pastels and acrylics and sometimes incorporates other materials sympathetic to the work.