Biography

lives and works in Hawkhurst

Years Experience: 29

Concepts, Ideas and Themes

The abstract in Art has a purity that I have always loved. Since I was a student I have been trying to paint abstract paintings; however, I have always worked from observation. At first I concentrated on developing my representational skills as I felt they were vital. More recently I find that to achieve my aim the world around me is the richest source of material. The physical presence of paint, and the relationships between colours and marks, are the essential elements.
All ideas are obtained by observation. Selection and the use of them are subjective decisions, though I strive for accuracy all the time.
Only landscape and still-life are my themes and sources. The introduction of the human presence in portraiture changes the discipline, to include it is a move I would not make. Lastly, I find my mind alone does not produce adequate material.

Processes and Techniques

I use traditional materials, oil paint on canvas or board, and paper and pencil or graphite for drawing, occasionally I use watercolours.

Career Path

After obtaining my degree in Fine Art at Liverpool, I lectured for a short time (mainly life drawing). I then moved to Italy in 1979. This was very important as I became aware of colour and light as if they had not existed previously. Also the introduction to early Tuscan artists was an enormous discovery and influence. Now my studio is in Spain; it suits me as I prefer to work in total isolation. I did not start showing work until 1996 as before then I had not felt ready to.

Selected Exhibitions

2002: Enid Lawson Gallery, London
2001: Highgate Fine Art
2001: Enid Lawson Gallery, London
2001: Cottage Gallery, Huntingdon
2000: Summer Group Show, Highgate Fine Art
1999: Woodgates Gallery, East Bergholt
1999: Enid Lawson Gallery, London
1999: Highgate Fine Art