Art@Oaktree - Sarah McHale
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Since childhood I have been fascinated by the landscape, being especially drawn to a sense of place, its spirit being of more importance than the physical reality. Many of my earliest memories resonate from places visited. There is something very compelling about being immersed in the landscape, whether local or further afield. As an artist I respond to these observations through layering of the media and mark. Colour is both a joyful and playful element.
I work in acrylic, and occasionally ink, building up layers of paint in various consistencies to arrive at rich and textured finishes. Often the case is knowing when to call a halt and deem a piece finished! My work is rarely representational. I am drawn to the abstract: enjoying the gesture of mark, the splash of colour, the drip of the brush which when combined result in a suggestion of what exists in reality. Monet's words 'never forget the first impression by which we are moved' have always remained with me. I am also influenced by Cy Twombly, Kurt Jackson, Turner and Frank Bowling.
In the past much of my work has been influenced by travels. Places as diverse as the Scottish Highlands and Islands to California and India have all become very special to me. The multi-sensory impact of simply being is deeply fascinating to me both as an artist and a human being. The landscape promotes mindfulness and being in touch with our environment supports a sense of calm even while becoming aware of our own insignificance within its forces.
Having spent most of my 'art career' teaching, I feel fortunate to be able to focus on my own practise as an artist, and relish the challenge of new places yet to discover. Although being more home-based of late has encouraged a deeper observation of what lies on my doorstep; the Severn and the country gardens of neighbours.
Commissions are always a delightful challenge in realising other people's vision on to canvas and I am happy to talk through your own ideas and memories.
I work in acrylic, and occasionally ink, building up layers of paint in various consistencies to arrive at rich and textured finishes. Often the case is knowing when to call a halt and deem a piece finished! My work is rarely representational. I am drawn to the abstract: enjoying the gesture of mark, the splash of colour, the drip of the brush which when combined result in a suggestion of what exists in reality. Monet's words 'never forget the first impression by which we are moved' have always remained with me. I am also influenced by Cy Twombly, Kurt Jackson, Turner and Frank Bowling.
In the past much of my work has been influenced by travels. Places as diverse as the Scottish Highlands and Islands to California and India have all become very special to me. The multi-sensory impact of simply being is deeply fascinating to me both as an artist and a human being. The landscape promotes mindfulness and being in touch with our environment supports a sense of calm even while becoming aware of our own insignificance within its forces.
Having spent most of my 'art career' teaching, I feel fortunate to be able to focus on my own practise as an artist, and relish the challenge of new places yet to discover. Although being more home-based of late has encouraged a deeper observation of what lies on my doorstep; the Severn and the country gardens of neighbours.
Commissions are always a delightful challenge in realising other people's vision on to canvas and I am happy to talk through your own ideas and memories.
Contact Details
Part of the farOpen Art Trail 1-9 July 2023
ART@OAKTREE IS LOCATED AT STUDIO 13, see the Open Studios 2023 Trail Map + Brochure
Oak Tree Cottage
Bury Lane, Minsterworth
Gloucester
Gloucestershire
GL2 8JF
07900 984281
[email protected]
Part of the farOpen Art Trail 1-9 July 2023
ART@OAKTREE IS LOCATED AT STUDIO 13, see the Open Studios 2023 Trail Map + Brochure
Oak Tree Cottage
Bury Lane, Minsterworth
Gloucester
Gloucestershire
GL2 8JF
07900 984281
[email protected]
