At what point did you first realise that you wanted to be an artist?
When I made my first large painting; titled Storm, using mixed media on board, measuring 222cm x 111cm. The experience was unique; exciting, challenging, intriguing, expressive and impatient. At the time, in college, we were allocated two days per week in the studio and I couldn’t wait to get back. From this I have learned the importance of distancing myself from the work which allows for deliberation and thought process to form, before getting back to the work.
What are your favourite galleries in London?
Tate Modern and Saatchi Gallery. Not just for artwork, but architecture, space and atmosphere. The Turbine Hall at Tate Modern is magnificent. The big light gallery spaces at Saatchi are uplifting and the scent from Richard Wilson’s 20:50 oil installation in the basement took the experience to another level.
Which artists do you actively follow?
I visit exhibitions as often as I can; observing, processing and engaging with contemporary art and culture. It’s always exciting to see the work of Anselm Kiefer, Cecily Brown and Joe Bradley, amongst others. One of the artists whose work I admire most is Cy Twombly, who sadly passed away in 2011.
You say in your bio; “The starting point of each painting is based on some form of narrative”, where does the inspiration come for these?
My work is influenced by the concept of time and perception of the memory as well as with contemporary culture and everyday objects and imagery. Memories tie our past with our present, and provide a framework for the future...
How would you describe a utopia?
Recurring early “memory” of long hot summer’s days in the countryside, drawing with a stone on the sandy road, barefooted wearing black shorts and a white t-shirt. It feels like there is nobody around for miles. It’s very quiet and time is endless. I can feel the warmth of the sun on my back, surrounded by colour; red, yellow, brown and blue mountains in the distance, scribbled on with white lines from the remaining snow.
What’s the first thing you do when you have a blank canvas in front of you?
My paintings are a thought process; driven and reflective...
My process is organic, beginning the paintings with gestural brush marks, impulsive scrawling and graffiti. Layers are introduced in stages and the direction of the painting is informed and influenced by each previous mark and colour.
What social media do you engage with?
Mainly Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter.
What are your plans for 2018 with regards to your work?
The plan is always to push my work bit further, and to exhibit at new venues as well.
