My work takes its source from found images, primarily old black and white photographs of strangers discovered in charity shops, flea markets and antique stores. I use the paint medium to reconceive the lost moment inspired by how the subjects present themselves in the photograph. I do not begin to attempt to improve a photograph through painting; rather I wish to unlock it from the past by creating something existing and real.
My paintings capture personalities and as I use bold colour the black and white strangers in the photographs start to come to life and I imagine the colours of their clothing, the colour of their eyes and hair. Through painting I start to relate to the people and they become characters in my own fictional storylines. The people from the precious photographs are speaking again through paint to others and are no longer lost.
My colour palette is inspired by my love for paper textures, patterns and wall paper together with mouldy mildew books forgotten and no longer valued. My titles are inspired by random sections of these abandoned novels which build on the story lines, personalities and relationships in my paintings.
The use of compositional and painting technique allows me to emphasise the character of the person as I see them and their relationship with others in the photo. My degree show exhibition explores my captivation with these relationships focusing on male and female associations at different stages in life.
22 May 2009 - Private View Event (students & guests)
23 May to 6 June 2009 - Open to general public
Location:
Vision @ SeabraesSeabraes YardGreenmarket, Dundee DD1 4QB
“What do grown-up people have that I haven’t?”
As Harold became more and more an acquaintance, almost a stranger, Isabel took to noticing him more.
Rose knew well enough that practically the whole range of human emotion was inevitable at the age of thirteen and that nothing could be done about it.
Alex had not intended to say a word of this but he could not help himself.
“And if Janice takes after you Isabel, I shall be satisfied, I promise you.”.JPG)
“Grown up people never pretend, except when they are talking to us.”
To some all this would have been moving, but not to Elspeth, for her mind was fixed on one thing, and closed to other impressions.
