 the penzance art gallery john o'carroll |
| The use of elemental materials is fundamental to much of my work, an alchemy which responds to nature time and energy. These vital and integral forces in nature are key elements, with colour and form emerging from the environment . Often I feel as though I am invoking a 'spirit of place' to take some residence in my work. Sometimes forms emerge, echoing repeating shapes found in nature , and at other times simple colour fields which allow the mind to experience a sense of space and timelessness. I enjoy the environment of the desert and ocean, they are elemental places where you can observe the immense forces of our planet. Places in which the mind can gain a certain clarity, a clarity that allows you to access your own basic humanity. My work reflects my experience of these environments , and therefore is quite fundamental in form , colour and expression. I get great enjoyment whilst working. Gathering pigments, grinding, melting wax and resins and preparing grounds, all physical labour , which allows the mind to be relaxed and centred before making the final marks , letting the work flow with a directness and spontaneity of energy. Finally I hope the work will resonate with its own vitality, and will be addressed on an instinctive level. The deep natural colours and sensual textures bringing a richness to the senses and the images space for the mind. |
