Louise Payne

Artist statement

I am interested in the realisation of eternal form. The rhythms and patterns, harmony and balance inherent in nature are my guide. I am interested in creating works which contain and reflect these qualities, and which unite the human soul in this dance.

My approach relates to the Eastern Artistic perspective: Inspiration lies with the rhythm of the 'cosmic life'.

In Taoist landscape painting all elements are there in order to emphasise by contrast the void. In my practice the elements, predominantly figurative, are also played out against a luminous void. I try to depersonalise the figure so as to make a general archetypal statement about the soul and its position within the cosmic order.

I relate strongly to Cezanne's later series of drawings, entitled 'Bathers', where the figures become internalised spiritual beings which are closely interwoven with the natural phenomena about them.

Brancusi stated, 'The Greatest Happiness is the contact between our essence and the eternal essence.' It is this contact with and embodiment of 'eternal principles' that is my goal.

My work spans Eastern and Western perspectives, combining observational drawing techniques, glazing and sfumato, and geometry. I continue to experiment with different methods and processes in order to most effectively capture the vision I have.

It is my belief that 'art' has the potential to bring people with an accelerated efficiency to an awareness of themselves and of life. It is my intention to fulfil this role as an artist.