12 Exaltations of Elizabeth

‘12 Exaltations of Elizabeth (Diary of a pregnant pensioner)’ is a sculptural handmade book. It is a humourous account reading between the lines of the Gospels of Luke and John concerning Elizabeth’s pregnancy with John the Baptist. It plays on Elizabeth’s inner thoughts giving the story a modern narrative whilst considering the dilemma of being pregnant in later life and a miraculous birth. It attempts to open up the viewers thoughts and reflections concerning  the story.

Artwork in situ on the altar at LeftBank

This piece of artwork is part of the ADVENTurous Exhibition at LeftBank, (next to the Cardigan Centre), Cardigan Road, Leeds, throughout the month of December. Check out the exhibition blog http://leftbankadventurous2012.blogspot.co.uk/

Portraits

Currently painting a selection of portraits of family and friends around the theme of nostalgia. These are very large portraits. By painting them so much larger than life the canvas acts as a huge landscape of time and space where I am in contemplative thought about and with my subject, considering my own memories and connections with the person, both past and present; my joy, passion and regrets. I aim to paint 20 and exhibit them hopefully next year. Keep watching!

Sept 2012

103cm x 114cm Oil on paper

Oct 2012

Oil Pastels on Paper 150 x 105cm

Trees Trees Trees

Mixed media paintings June & July 2012
Being painting trees for weeks working with a variety of media, here are some of my favourites. They aim to explore the liveliness of the subject through vibrant colours whilst trying to express movement with multiple fluid abstract strokes in contrast to stark backgrounds. 

  


 













Multicoloured Forest

This painting is approximately 170cm x 90cm. Using mixed media it was a culmination of several slightly smaller pieces. Working out the process of creating a colourful, lively forest.

Biro Drawings

 

This drawing emerged by itself starting from the small recess in the bottom of the tree and just adding whatever came into my mind or reacting to the marks on the paper. I could probably draw a lot of interesting analogy from the image myself and my own life. It would be interesting to find out other people's thoughts of what is going on in the drawing.  

This second image emerged from the marks in the tree above. I used the same repetitive mark throughout just adding shading to see how it developed. Below is a close up detail of the trunk.

'Peace'

I've been absorbed in this intricate doodle for nearly a week. I found the repetitive marks extremely relaxing, allowing me space to think and process my thoughts, especially after a busy day.

The dove, symbolic of peace was also representative of the art work I was making and the space I was allowing myself. I wanted the bird to be hidden amidst the chaos of the other marks, taking the viewer a little time to find its outline and consider the other shapes in the composition. The image is a metaphor of our busy lives and trying to find some peace and sense in the middle of the chaos. I believe that you can have a real sense of 'inner' peace even when everything around you is going wrong.

Psychological Disruptions Zines

A series of 4 illustrated zines, exploring my reflexive thoughts and reactions to life experiences, emotional issues presented as an Art Psychotherapist mixed with fantay. The books consider the effects of art on mental health and well-being and the human psyche. 

These tactile books are made to stimulate the sensual senses whilst you consider your emotional responses to the images. Each is individually handcrafted and sewn together with hair to represent a living being or living thoughts.

Limited Edition prints, sold 11 today at the Zine fair in Bradford. Thank you to all those that supported me, hope you enjoy the books. £8 each plus p+p or a set for £30 plus p+p. Email inquiries accepted.  

New work - Silent Screams

These pieces are based around the thought of the inner conflict we feel inside and carry around with us. Many people carry horrendous stories that cause great emotional distress outwardly appearing fine, whilst inside they are screaming in pain.