with forces natural and man-made. The semi-abstract images have evolved out of an emotional involvement with surface qualities and colour, inspired initially by the rock formations of Portland, Dorset.
A hut at Windy Ridge, Portland has provided constant access to a region rich in stimuli. Views take in the sweep of Chesil Beach and cross-sectional cliff faces. Ancient, weathered and exposed, the rocky coastline confronts the elements.
Moving to the New Forest has broadened my horizons further. The vast expanses of lush heather, wide open spaces, dense forestation, incredible contrasts of light and shade accompanied by glorious colours, all aspects have affected my work.
Offering young people the opportunity to explore media. A most enjoyable process, taking me back to my earlier teaching years.
Using a sketchbook and camera I gather a wealth of visual material, accompanied by an intense feeling for my surroundings. Back in the studio I explore marks on a variety of surfaces and then experiment with multi-layering
techniques wherein colours submerge and emerge across the picture plane. My passion is surface and colour; my main 2-dimensional medium is oil with the incorporation of mixed media, through these I aim to evoke a sense of time and place.
Developing concurrently has been a collection of hand-built earthenware pottery. Evolving out of organic forms different surface finishes have been achieved through burnishing, wax resist, slip, stencils and glazes.
Working with glass (fusing, slumping and bas relief) has enabled me to respond in a painterly manner to this medium. Experimenting with a wide range of different inclusions (Foils, meshes, enamels, leafs, frits…) enables me to explore once again a multi-layering process and results in constant surprises!!
My overall body of work is unified by its exploration of surface qualities. The intention is to engage and challenge the viewer, to enable them to respond and reach their own visual conclusion.
Exhibiting works:
I feel my work is best viewed in the place that it was created. Hillview Studio is surrounded by the nature that inspires a great deal of my work. My work can be viewed at the studio, please ring for an appointment. For current exhibitions of my work please visit the Exhibitions & Events page.