I describe my paintings
as ‘abstract landscapes’.
Unlike the landscapes we see above the Earth's surface,
these are landscapes that are hidden from view deep under
our feet, landscapes that are created by nature's activity
underground, affecting and influencing what happens above
ground.
I’ve
always been fascinated by volcanoes and the power and energy
they hold, being responsible for creating our land masses
so long ago. Volcanoes continue to shape and reshape our
visual landscape. They not only destroy but also create new
landscapes when they reveal their power above ground.
Now as an artist I still
find volcanoes fascinating and the source of my inspiration.
Through my paintings I’m
trying to connect with nature and capture the energy that
exists beneath our feet. It is this energy that is central
to all my work and I continually strive to capture on canvas.
I
like to work in relief using strong colour. Working in relief
allows me to create something that is more alive and dynamic,
adding a sculptural dimension to my work, often so heavily
textured it casts shadows. Many of my paintings are triptychs.
I like the movement that occurs when the image is split in
this way, like the Earth splitting open.
People often say
they are moved by my work in a way they can not articulate
but they can feel the energy coming off the canvas.
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