1. Painting: studio practice
In my practice, my paintings are driven by the process of layering as well as accidental mark-making. This new series of paintings is called “Nous Sommes” and it depicts members of a family. The notion of portraiture here is not so much representational but it is understood in the context of perception of the self and of the other.
Exhibited at St. George’s School Gallery, Cologne
The works are made by layering oil paint, inks and tissue paper on canvas. They undergo a constant process of re-working until they click into place.
Experimental mark-making techniques are always welcome as they intercept the process of over thinking.
2. Printmaking: thought processes
“Alphabet of Form” is an ongoing body of work that endeavours to compile 26 units of form. Akin to our alphabet of letters, these works can be combined to ever new words. Six linoleum prints (30x42cm) have been made thus far and are displayed here paying homage to the grid and to repetition: two of the key concepts of graphic design.
Prints laid out to dry before cropping.
3. Research project: in search of the creative moment
The notion of creativity has a high status in our society. Being creative is considered something only few can achieve. Particularly current debates surrounding Artificial Intelligence let us re-evaluate the notion of creativity. This research project aimed to anchor creativity as a key human character trait and developed a method of observing creativity as it manifests in young people. It offers ongoing engagement with educational institutions in both adult and children’s education.
An interview led by a researcher helped students to verbalise their experiences of creativity, as well as offering the material for the process of qualitative research.
4. Educational Projects: the artist teacher
Projects for students of a secondary school offer the chance to combine big concepts with the haptic experience of exploring art materials. Skills in drawings and photography help students to understand the world around them, while working in printmaking, painting or sculpture enables students to develop a personal creative language. All of the projects above were made with students age 12-19.
Working with adult student artists often has a greater focus on self-discovery and expression This workshop on expressive mark-making in drawing and painting was marked by an intense creative atmosphere and the pure joy of making.