I have been developing ideas of layering, trying to create the illusion of physical space within a flat surface. I have brought this together with motifs and shapes developed from historical textiles. I do this using various patterns of different size and colour, usually using a more random pattern for the under painting, then organising the image through a controlling surface pattern.
I also have experimented with colour, looking for a mix of colours that make some areas recede and some areas come forward. I am also frequently inspired by the colour of the seasons and of the different landscapes I visit. I make my paintings in a disorganized manner; trying to encourage the ‘happy accident’ to this end I try a variety of techniques to see if they might add to the effects I am aiming for. In this way I sometimes stumble upon techniques that lead to exciting developments.
I am particularly interested in ancient textural artefacts including religious icons from medieval times. The intricate work produced by anonymous hands is compelling it evokes empathy to those craftsmen and women toiling over their work. There is a wealth of narrative within these works; they speak of symbolism, natural form, of travel and domestic life.