In this series, elements of my previous map-based paintings are still evident but I’m moving into a purer abstraction and developing my own visual language with a series of repetitive shapes, lines, circles and crosses. Most of the canvases are larger and the work is under painted in subdued hues to give a toned-down earthy appearance.
This series evolved out of sketches of field patterns found on historic maps of Dorset. I became interested in unusual shapes where hedges or fences had been diverted to avoid features such as springs or rocky outcrops. The final paintings contain motifs such as circles or crosses referring to the marks which people place on maps to mark points of interest. Pencil lines overwrite the paint, hinting at lost pathways. The finished pieces are constructed abstracts rather than accurate depictions of a place.
This series of paintings began life as schematic maps of the coastal landscape of the South West Peninsula based on satellite photographs and historic maps. The initial rough outlines were overpainted and scrubbed back as shapes were defined, buried and rediscovered in a layering process. The final abstract paintings retain visible traces of the evolution of forms beneath the surface while scribbled lines speak of fishing lines, tangled nets and detritus washed up along eroding shorelines.
Where the Mist Rises numbers one to six were initially conceived for exhibition at the Rotunda Gallery in Lyme Regis Museum in a collaboration with Lyme Bay Arts. This gallery houses just six panels in a circular formation, encompassing the viewer to give a close-up, intimate viewing experience. Once again, based on maps and satellite photographs of the coastal landscape of the South West, initial rough outlines were overpainted and scrubbed back as shapes were defined, buried and rediscovered in a layering process. Soft veils of paint overlay the work as reminders of the sea frets which frequently mask the Dorset coastline. I am currently developing this work into a larger series of paintings.
I am delighted that two mixed media sketches from my new series Where the Mist Rises, have been selected for the Evolver Prize Exhibition. 6th January – 27th February 2021.
Due to Covid restrictions, the exhibition has now moved online and can be seen in 3D at www.theabsentgallery.co.uk
My exhibition, at Lyme Regis Museum in collaboration with Lyme Bay Arts has now been rescheduled:
Where the Mist Rises, 4th August to 11th September 2021
Lyme Regis Museum, Bridge Street, Lyme Regis, DT7 3QA
www.lymeregismuseum.co.uk
Due to possible Covid 19 restrictions, please check opening times for 2021 exhibitions