I was born and raised in Somerset, UK. I found joy in drawing from as far back as I can remember. From a family of creatives, art was always encouraged.
In my late 20s I moved to Australia to work as a registered nurse.
It was here in WA I felt a desire to pick up a paint brush and make art.
In 2013 I enrolled in a short R.M.I.T Course called exploring painting where I was awarded a high Distinction. Since then all I have wanted to do is paint and bring happiness to others through each piece of artwork.
(During the past six months) I have felt myself transitioning from exploration painting to finding my individual style.
My process involves studying an image or photo for perspective, paying attention to the shapes and values. This is then hand drawn onto the canvas with charcoal.
Initially the marks made are loose, big shapes are created using wide brushes, palate knives and scrapers, often with a bright underpainting with the intention to have parts of these colours visible at the end of each piece.
Paper cuttings from old books, magazines are collaged to help form a story and add texture. These papers are either thickly or thinly covered in acrylic.
I enjoy experimenting with mediums such as impasto, and heavy gel matte to give more body, depth, texture and interest.
Washi tape is also a favourite item i’ll use during a study. Washi tape helps make precise and sharp shapes that can isolate paints from other layers. I often use this technique with my waves in seascape work.
Scratch marks made with sewing pins are also seen in my work which adds to the texture.
Finer details and care free marks are made before a piece is finished.
I love the combination of semi abstract and realism and hoping to develop these skills in my art journey.
Thanks!
Laura