Carole Hawthorne
Nottingham
My work could be described as an exploration of the boundaries between painting and sculpture, colour being the predominant factor.
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My paintings are developed from unique observations which are taken from rich sources. These include investigations into colour combinations, primitive pattern,surfaces, rhythms, formations, structure and changing light.
The technical processes involved are key to producing my paintings. I use multiple marks created by masking, layering and removing colour to create a visual field.
There is a sense of ‘looking through ‘ or ‘inside looking out or outside looking in’ as the colours beneath are revealed through the layers. I build up the surface, merging it
and breaking it down allowing the painting to evolve in its own time.
Colour is a predominant factor in the work, I make many colour swatches to prepare the pieces, which are referred to in order to search for colour values, weight and tension.
These works act as a vehicle for contemplation and mindfulness.
Recent work has taken a new direction, it has moved away from a preoccupation with layers and surface texture.
Now there is flat colour, pattern and optical illusion. These three dimensional paintings have evolved out of a concern with the ‘object’ rather than the picture plane, the intention being to create visual interest when seen from different viewpoints. There is an element of surprise and playfulness in the pieces.
I am influenced by Minimalism and particularly admires Agnes Martin and Bridget Riley who have engaged in a lifelong relationship with painting.
After living and working in London I came to Nottingham where I gained an MA in Fine Art at Nottinham Trent University.
My last job was as was as course leader for HND Fine Art, after I had been course leader for Foundation Art & Design at Nottingham College.
Since I left teaching I have been painting full time and for the past three years I have been based in Backlit Studios in Central Nottingham.
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