Water

After painting detailed botanical and surreal studies of nature, the prospect of creating conceptualized waterscapes in a minimalist style was a welcome relief. The mood was contemplative and Zen. I was drawn to the simplicity of form presented with rich surfaces and impressionistic brush strokes that allowed me to relax. Waterfalls have always mesmerized me with a sense of the power of nature and the sublime. They carry a symbolic story of purification and baptismal cleansing which easily washes away the clutter of 21st century living. In the West they are sadly becoming rare sights due to drought and climate change. I have used photos, film and memory to construct these imaginary scenes which I hope give a glimpse of what Petrarch described as giving “… even the sluggish soul a rise to the noblest concerns”.