Oil paintings form an integral part of my practice. Research into Contemporary Botanical Art encouraged larger than life interpretations of detailed specimens, resulting in abstract and impressionistic responses and designs. O’Keeffe is one of many Artists to influence my work. To enlarge something so recognisable as fruits and vegetables not only celebrates their beauty but allows space for a new value and perspective of the subject.
Subjectivity ranges from botanical specimens to wildflower scenes and landscapes. Predominantly, the background is removed; allowing the painterly forms to float upon the surface; portraits in themselves. Completed scenes and scapes therefore act as preliminary sketches and inspiration. Within the fruits, vegetables and flowers are sunsets, mountains and anthropomorphic connections.
Garlic Bulb, 2014. Colours and inspiration taken from a sunset.
Fig, 2015. Inspiration from a study by Egon Schiele.