Almost a Cathedral

My intention, through the deconstruction, juxtaposition and layering of my subject matter, is to recreate the fragmented memories and sensations of moving through architectural spaces. The dynamics of the architecture along with the perpetually changing play of light and colour on the array of surfaces I study is my continuous challenge.

Based in Dawlish, Devon, I studied for a BA in Fine Art at Bristol from 1971-74, followed by an Art Teacher training course at Sussex School of Education. I then worked as Head of Art and Design at Teignmouth Community College for 38 years.

The past six years since leaving that role have been spent working hard to hone my observational and imaginative skills as well and discover the subject matter that really inspires and holds my attention.

I need to leave this relatively rural environment regularly to discover new places and new inspiration in order to feel challenged. The warm intense light of the Mediterranean countries and the cooler light of Northern Europe, the old and the contemporary architectural styles and materials are the elements that capture my attention.

One of an extensive series of paintings emerging from a visit to the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao last year.  This is the sole interior work which explores the extraordinary architectural structure and materials of Frank Ghery’s genius. The entrance to the museum has a cathedral - like quality with white plaster and steel windows soaring up to infinity. The gentle curves of the structure, almost curtain- like, are a complimentary contrast to the glass, steel and titanium of the exterior surface.

Oil on Canvas

74x44x5cm

Framed in an Open Frame