Artist Statement
The body of work exhibited in the graduate show is focused on sustained attention and close visual observation of the natural forms and patterns of Loch Laich, a tidal Loch on the west coast of Scotland. My research primarily takes the form of close direct observation of subtle shifts in the environment over a prolonged period. The nature of this is slow, gentle, and repetitive, building up a collection of sketches, photographs, and written accounts of my experiences over many months of observation. This then forms the basis of my refined studio oil paintings. The main focus of this body of work is on small shifts in water, light, and atmosphere. My aim is to make art in a very gentle and meditative way, and I choose to work with natural materials that have a low environmental impact such as wood and natural oils. I spend time carefully studying the site, taking photographs and sketching composition, then completing my final paintings over a number of weeks based on this fieldwork. Ultimately, my work is less about representing a specific geographical site, and more about paying close attention to the natural world and atmosphere through a gentle approach to mark making.
Graduate Show Work
