Art and Observation
“Drawing makes you see things clearer, and clearer and clearer still, until your eyes ache.” – David Hockney
Sight is a precious thing. I count myself blessed that I am able to see and to fully appreciate the world around me. Like many artists, I notice things that often go unnoticed by others. I like to take my mobile camera with me when out walking or visiting new places. That way, I can capture rare moments which are fleeting and never to be repeated. I’m often to be found bringing up the rear in a group of friends, trying to snap some tree or plant (not literally!) from an unusual angle. (In fact, my husband jokes, it’s like walking a dog that’s pulling on a chain – and not necessarily in the same direction!)
My Approach to Art
My compositions are intimate and sincere in that they spring from my own experiences. I aim to create scenes that are both recognisable and evocative, so that the viewer can share my initial experiences. To keep my work fresh, I like to vary my subject matter. Hence, it ranges from moody landscapes to figurative studies.
In the interest of realism, I do not shy away from including details that may seem commonplace or banal. So, for instance, in my painting of the typically attractive Mediterranean street in Monopoli, you will find modern cars parked in front of the houses and a waste bin outside one of the buildings. Similarly, in ‘Rue des Epinaux’, the traditional old buildings exist together with features that are not so idyllic – a modern motorbike, mopeds and iron bollards, to name but a few; the painting ‘Market Life’ is full of minutiae, from brand names on crates of fruit and veg. to the rings and watches worn by everyday characters. In this way, I aim to tell a convincing story, setting the scene in time and place.
My acrylic painting style tends to be quite illustrative, probably because it has evolved from a love of drawing.
Artistic Development
In contrast, I have begun to experiment with pastels in a more impressionistic style. I find that the broad stumps of very soft dusty pastels enable me to work freely and expressively. With sharp pastel pencils, I am able to add those touches of crisper detail that have become so fundamental to my work.