PAINTING IN LOCKDOWN series

I have lived in the English Lakes for 20 years and the move to painting the landscape has very much been tied to that. The physicality of the landscape and the ever changing light around me is a constant source of inspiration - despite travels in other parts of the world

During the various periods of lockdown in 2020 and all the frustration, fear (of income disappearing with galleries and outlets, classes and workshops all stopping overnight) and for me at times anger at continuing decisions being imposed as if I and others had somehow lost all ability to make common sense risk assessments - it was difficult knowing at times which way to turn or what to do. It was during this period I determined to continue as normal to go into the studio and paint - and the work which emerged had a much more figurative quality. Without wanting to read too much into it I think the interest in the more abstract qualities of paint and mark-making took on less significance and I was somehow drawn to celebrate the realities of the beauty of what was around me on my doorstep. The grounds around my studio are a riot of flower and colour in the Spring. After a spell of beautiful Spring days and the trees around the studio full of cherry blossom - it was something I wanted to capture in paint. And also during daily walks through local woods I wanted to capture something of the simplicity of the English Pastoral landscape I was immersed in

The following two sub-series of paintings from within this context are: FLOWERS AND BLOSSOMS and the OUT OF THE WOODS series. In the midst of struggle they are a metaphor for new life - but also hope, which emerges with rejuvenating walks in woodland and forests, before stepping out again into familiar civilian life with fresh, renewed vision

Painted during recent online ZOOM demo sessions - these two sub-series are complete with beautiful handmade, and hand-painted frames - either scooped chunky white moulding or contemporary 'St Ives style' white frames. All highlighting and leading the eye into the work. Signed by me on the front - and labelled on the reverse these are all ready to hang

SIGNED LIMITED EDITION PRINTS ARE AVAILABLE - on beautiful Somerset Velvet paper