I start this months update with Birch Trees At Sunrise, a commissioned painting for an existing collector. Delivered in early January, its now professionally framed and hanging beautifully in its new home. As you know, my works are predominently made by mark making - a process by which art is created using found items or tools and without the use of a traditional brush or the common action of "painting". Aside from initially outlining the trees, each element of this painting has been created with marks - from swooshes in the dramatic sunrise to each blade of grass and the layered texture on the tree bark - marked onto 650gsm hand-made cotton paper. The client provided an image and a short brief allowing me the creative liscence to complete this in my impressionist style. I'm very grateful for this commission. Commissions are an important and exciting part of my practice and I would love the opportunity to work on more. You can initiate a commission here
Where The Ocean Turns To Light, 2023, Porthole Series.
I'm so very grateful to another existing collector for taking two more of my ocean paintings. These are also a labour of love. They can take anything between 4-8 weeks to create, working on them every day. I can't express my gratitude enough when they go to their new home. This particular piece has inspired me to make a gallery sized version at 200cm plus! - I can't wait to get started!
You can also commission an ocean painting, each painting will be unique and I can work to an impression of your favourite sea. Commission here.
Helpless To Do Otherwise 2023, Abstract Expression.
This is a small section of a new large scale expression work that I've recently completed. Inbetween the impression works - which usually need long drying times, I like to have an abstract expression [or two] on rotation in the studio. You will usually see elements of both styles as I work through the pieces. I can usually have approx 3-4 paintings going at the same time. One on an easel, 1 on the floor and 1-2 on the table. I keep myself busy!
I have re-introduced oil paints into my expression work. This allows me to play with depth, intensity and movement.
My main goal this year is to obtain gallery representation. I would love to become an international / museum artist in the long term. Therefore, the scale and price of some of my works need to be gallery and exhibition ready. If you are interested in this piece which is listed on Saatchi Art, please get in touch for a commission free cost.
The Other Art Fair 2023
I took part in all 3 UK editions of The Other Art Fair last year, they are big events on an artists calendar and I didn't feel prepared for the first edition this March so I decided not to apply. I will however, apply for the June edition by which point, I will have created enough new works to show.
Artist Open House - Save The Date 13th, 14th, 20th & 21st May
Exhibition dates which are firmly in my calendar are my yearly artist open house, part of the Dulwich Festival, this May. Taking place in my new studio and garden, I would love to see you there. The location is Herne Hill in South East London. Please save one of these dates to come along. More info, on this next month.
With Love, Light & Gratitude,
Courtenay.