Summer Collection - Spontaneous expressive and bold landscapes
This year, I had a huge confidence boost, with my work winning not one but two prizes: the John Purcell Paper Prize for the Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours and the Derwent Art Prize (People’s Choice). With these prizes, I received lots of positive comments and fantastic PR about my paintings. I was buoyant, as I started this new collection with ease. With this confidence came bold, expressive brushwork and self assured joy, laying down exciting colours and lines.
This new summer collection certainly packs a punch. I have introduced new fluorescent colours, which in the past I have shied away from. They help with moving the viewer’s eye around the canvas, almost making it glow. As ever, the Sussex coastline and South Downs are my continuous inspiration. I hope that the viewer is also taken to their special place.
I started with 27 canvasses, working between them at the same time. I do this because it keeps me loose and free to experiment, knowing that not all of the canvasses will make the final collection and meaning that I don’t become too tight or controlled. When I am in the moment, I can enjoy the wet paint and form and not think too much about producing a finished painting. 18 made the final cut!
There is no way of not mentioning the current situation. Over the months of lockdown, painting was a great escape, immersing myself within these paintings, with impulsive and expressive movements. I was worried that they might turn out a little depressing but now, when I stand back and take them in, they are a pure joy.
I am extremely proud of this collection. My only disappointment is that they will never all be viewed together in a large, white gallery, with a fabulous Private View where I could meet and chat to you all. I hope that you have enjoyed watching my journey on social media over the last few months. I also hope this work speaks to you and conjures up memories of your own experiences but, simply put, this is what emerged from me and I love it!