current work
Caerleon
Camelot
It's a jungle out there
My recent paintings and installations have developed from observations of random people photographed in Bath city centre. Beginning with a simple outline taken from these photographs, I create templates which form the basis for a painting or MDF cut-out.
Painting in oil on canvas or MDF I build up layers of ornamentation in varying densities and dimensions before overlaying this background with the cut-out shapes of the people. Finally, I fill in the outlines with more decoration to develop a sense of the body as a separate force: but one which merges with the surrounding detail.
The 3D installations have developed as a way of allowing the viewer to interact with the work. The MDF cut-outs have decoration on the front and mirror plate on the back and are placed in a room so that the viewer can see themselves reflected, encouraging the audience to become drawn into the work’s ambience.
Underpinning the subject matter is my interest in people, their interactions and the quality of their inner life, which for the most part is hidden from view.