Artist Statement
My practice can be read as a metaphysical exploration - my aesthetic response to landscapes close to my heart and home near Lyme Regis. My abstract landscape paintings are atmospheric, evocative of place and time.
The archetypal Jurassic Coast and Undercliffs - prone to landslips revealing their pre-historic secrets - are symbolic of the cycle of life; resilient and regenerative. We can see our future.
My meanderings along the cliffs and twisting pathways of the Lyme Undercliff are a haven away from all the Noise. Like my walks, the act of painting can be a meditative process; an intimate dialogue between myself and my art. The desire for tranquility and communing with nature are enduring themes. In a sense my paintings become a refuge; a safe place for me and the viewer.
I approach my painting in the spirit of experimentation. Initial daubings and splatters of colour are built up with more layers and texture. I use an assortment of mediums - oils, acrylics, beeswax paste, rags, paper, salt - which add an earthly sensuality to my paintings.
My experience as a professional cook undoubtedly comes into play. I am fascinated in the alchemy of elevating base materials to create something memorable and sublime.
My intuitive choice of colours, particularly violet and lemon yellow represent optimism, the sun and the universe adding a metaphysical dimension. My practice is an intriguing process of risk, refinement and discovery. I can feel it in my gut. At some point during the process as I scratch away at the surface, the canvas surrenders its secrets. It transitions from teasing me to me finding a way in and me taking control.
Like the poet, I strive to find the visual elements equivalent to “the best words in the best order” (S T Coleridge).
The archetypal Jurassic Coast and Undercliffs - prone to landslips revealing their pre-historic secrets - are symbolic of the cycle of life; resilient and regenerative. We can see our future.
My meanderings along the cliffs and twisting pathways of the Lyme Undercliff are a haven away from all the Noise. Like my walks, the act of painting can be a meditative process; an intimate dialogue between myself and my art. The desire for tranquility and communing with nature are enduring themes. In a sense my paintings become a refuge; a safe place for me and the viewer.
I approach my painting in the spirit of experimentation. Initial daubings and splatters of colour are built up with more layers and texture. I use an assortment of mediums - oils, acrylics, beeswax paste, rags, paper, salt - which add an earthly sensuality to my paintings.
My experience as a professional cook undoubtedly comes into play. I am fascinated in the alchemy of elevating base materials to create something memorable and sublime.
My intuitive choice of colours, particularly violet and lemon yellow represent optimism, the sun and the universe adding a metaphysical dimension. My practice is an intriguing process of risk, refinement and discovery. I can feel it in my gut. At some point during the process as I scratch away at the surface, the canvas surrenders its secrets. It transitions from teasing me to me finding a way in and me taking control.
Like the poet, I strive to find the visual elements equivalent to “the best words in the best order” (S T Coleridge).
