Being Watched by Three Cows - 15" x 16"
I find it rather odd being a painter, having an innate compulsion to make marks on paper, often to the detriment of everyone and everything else is such a strange way to behave. Nevertheless, watercolour is my particular obsession. I just love its fluidity, its uncontrollable nature and its seeming ability to be both compelling and frustrating at the same time.
Peering Through the Wood - 10" x 11"
My approach to painting is vaguely similar, somewhat carefree, but the marks which I make have to be pleasing to my eye, whatever I use to make them (brush, razor blade, nail or stick), because I am trying to create something which is not perceived as too contrived or deliberate. I am also looking for an abstract quality in the composition and an element of experimentation with the medium. Consequently, I am not always concerned about using watercolour in its purest form and will experiment with water-based mixed-media to get the effect I’m after, while all the time ensuring that the work is still about the paint.
Surrounded by Long Tailed Tits - 15" x 16"
Much of this is instinctive when things are going well, which is invaluable when the majority of my work is painted on-site (in the Mendip Hills and Wetlands, near to my home in Somerset) and being outside in all weathers is what I find exciting. I am forced to make decisions about the painting quickly, make simple fresh marks and it either works or it doesn’t.
After a few weeks I look at this work with a ‘fresh eye’ and will occasionally refine and develop paintings in the studio – always being mindful not to overwork them. The ‘failures’ will either go in the bin or used as inspiration for new studio work.
Striking pieces, subtle and yet bold.
ReplyDeleteFantastic work - wonderful!
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