Simplify

My recent paintings all have a common origin in the local woodland and the paths through them. I have though varied the extent of formal structure, which in turn determines the degree of flexibility in the painting that follows.

Many recent paintings have had limited formal structure. As a result, many have dense, energetic surfaces, with multiple points of interest, giving a disturbed and unsettling effect.

This progression culminated in a group of paintings started without any specific structure, with the intention of responding to the emerging marks. These became increasingly hard to develop in any particular direction (see below).

From here, it was clear a course correction was needed. The opportunities to define and develop a subject were too limited. So I’ve pulled this back, starting with simple charcoal forms, and very limited colour palette and brushwork. This stripping back is a a clearer structure and simpler subject.

From series Colour of Bruising. Oil on paper 41x30 cm