Artist Statement

I paint in oils on linen or panels, my painting is landscape based.
I am drawn to trees and water, time and light, the natural landscape rather than the built environment, however I am always aware that human history is written on the landscape of the Peak District, in the hills, trees, water and stones. I feel a deep connection to the earth, everywhere around me has been changed, trodden on, used by people over thousands of years. In the trees the memory of use for coppicing, charcoal burning, firewood, the making of shelter.
In my work I want to express the feeling of a place. I start by making sketches and sitting in observation , soaking up the feelings it gives me. The depth of time expressed in the essence of a place, the atmosphere in light and shade and reflections on water. I go back often before working in the studio, working intuitively in layers . My painting is a meditation on an experience, rather than an attempt to make a photographic image. I would like the viewer to be able to access that feeling of peace and deep connection, a timeless space in a busy life.