SCOTTISH
HIGHLANDS
I have been visiting the Highlands since my
childhood, but it was in 1989 that I started to go there for the sole purpose
of painting. Inspired by the granduer of the landscape and the light I have
gradually got to know the place. I was greatly inspired by the photos and
books of W.A.Poucher, the photographer and mountaineer. I felt akin with his
visitors view of the place. His photos seem to focus in on the mountains themselves
as if they were sitting waiting to be either conquered or portrayed.
Each visit I would return south laden with images and inspiration. Over the
years certain places and themes manifest themselves to me and resonate with
something I recognise. A journey and returning both physically and spiritually
within the work. The realisation of a wish and a yearning.
My travels
have taken me on a broad arc or loop, from Glasgow up the west coast, Applecross,
Wester Ross, north to the fantastic open space of Sutherland, out west to
the Western Isles, Lewis, Harris and the Uists, which I find completely compelled
to return to.
Again I think it is my fascination with places that lie on an edge.
The works have an intended romantic quality to them - this is a reaction I
can't ignore in myself.
My next journey north I want to get to St Kilda, somehow.
