For the month of May, I had the immense honour of being named the Art Society Worcester's Local Artist of the Month. To be singled out in a community brimming with such talent, and following in the footsteps of artists I deeply admire, was a truly humbling and incredible experience.
Living and working as a Worcester Artist in the heart of Worcestershire, I find constant inspiration in the beauty that surrounds us. It's a county that truly nourishes the soul of an artist. While the historic echoes of the renowned Royal Worcester porcelain tradition resonate, it's the ever-changing natural landscape that often draws me to my easel.
My own artistic journey often leans towards post impressionism, seeking to capture the fleeting moments of light and atmosphere that make our local landscapes and scenes so captivating. There's a particular magic in trying to translate the subtle shifts in colour and light onto canvas, aiming to evoke a feeling as much as a precise representation. To have this approach to original art resonate with the Art Society Worcester is deeply gratifying.
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Among the many breathtaking vistas in Worcestershire, the Malvern Hills hold a special place in my heart. Their undulating forms, the way the light plays across their slopes, and the panoramic views they offer provide endless inspiration. I often find myself drawn back to capture their moods in different seasons and at various times of day.
However, my artistic focus isn't solely on the broader landscape. I also find immense beauty in the smaller details, particularly the local flora that flourishes throughout Worcestershire. Now, as we move through late spring and into early summer, my garden and the surrounding countryside are bursting with colour. The magnificent peonies, with their opulent blooms and delicate hues, have been a recent source of fascination. Each petal seems to hold a universe of subtle variations in tone and texture, a challenge and a joy to try and capture.
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Looking ahead, I eagerly anticipate the vibrant arrival of the sunflowers. I'm fortunate to have access to a local Worcestershire sunflower farm, a sea of golden faces turning towards the sun – a truly uplifting sight. Later in the season, the rich blues and purples of hydrangeas will also beckon, their intricate clusters of flowers offering a different kind of textural and chromatic exploration.
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These floral subjects aren't merely painted as they are found. I often take the time to carefully arrange them into still life compositions. This process allows me to explore the interplay of colours, shapes, and light in a more controlled environment, bringing a sense of intention and harmony to the final painting. Whether sourced directly from my garden or from a local Worcestershire grower, each flower carries a connection to this place I call home.
One of the truly wonderful aspects of having such an active and engaged local arts scene is the presence of organisations like the Art Society Worcester (https://www.theartssocietyworcester.org.uk/). It provides a fantastic hub for art lovers locally to come together. Members have the opportunity to listen to wonderfully interesting lectures covering all things art, fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding. Spending time with fellow enthusiasts creates a real sense of community and shared passion.
This year holds extra excitement as we look forward to celebrating the 10th anniversary of Worcestershire Open Studios, an event I tremendously enjoy every year. It's a fantastic opportunity for the public to connect directly with artists in their studios, to see the creative process firsthand, and I know the Art Society Worcester plays a vital role in supporting and promoting such initiatives.
Thank you to the Art Society Worcester for this special recognition. It's a memory I will truly treasure, and I encourage anyone with an interest in art to explore the enriching opportunities offered by their local society and to perhaps discover the beauty of Worcestershire through the eyes of its artists during the upcoming Open Studios.