Finding Beauty in simple things
When we slow down long enough to really look, simple objects reveal extraordinary beauty. A feather, a shell, a flower, plant or vegetable, a simple bowl or vase, a line of trees, can reveal their own beauty when given our full attention. My paintings are an invitation to pause, notice and appreciate the simple things around us.
Inspired by the natural world and simple everyday objects
For many years I have been so busy with life that I've walked past simple objects without noticing - a feather in the grass, a beautiful purple thistle, an elegant vase on the windowsill. Lately I have been trying to slow down and appreciate the beauty in these simple things and I've discovered a world of fascination and wonder that is very fulfilling. I'd like to share some of this with you and encourage us all to pause, notice and appreciate what is around us.
Original Oil Paintings from the Cotswolds
I live in the Cotswolds and am lucky to have beautiful countryside on the doorstep. My paintings often begin with a photo or sketch made whilst walking. I generally paint in oils but also use watercolour and pastels. I look for harmony in my paintings through using a limited palette of colours. I will use both direct and indirect painting methods depending on the subject, so sometimes my paintings will be alla prima and other times I will paint a monochrome layer and apply glazes with transparent colours. I use Rosemary Brushes mainly and I experiment with different oil paint brands but my current preference is for Michael Harding. I'm fortunate to live near Stroud where there is a large Jackson's Art shop and a very dynamic artist community who are always putting on exhibitions!