At times a vigorous approach is employed, capturing a sense of urgency
in an effort to
catch the changing light. This could then pass on to analytical observation, seeking to
emulate the subtle complexity of natural forms.
Working outside brings an instinctive aspect to painting. I employ a directness of
articulation and economy of language. At times areas are left understated while other
areas are the focus of attention. This is reflective of how the mind, the eye and the
hand respond in a cohesive flow in response to working from life, whilst the creative
energy emanates from the heart.
I look for a sense of pictorial space, taking the furthest point from the eye, then
drawing the composition towards me. Conversely, the viewer, looking at the surfaces
and reading the painting is gradually drawn through the space. In a sense I am
painting an organic, natural space rather than a picturesque view of the landscape. I
am not averse to the beauty and interconnectedness of things.
The palette of colours is kept simple. Considerable mixing takes place, on the palette
and on the painting. I push the paint around using various brushes and tools as the
pigments get to know each other. I often think of the process of painting as a series of
mistakes, with an underlying sense of knowing, continuing towards a resolution.
Working within the parameters of a creative window, I see the painting evolve. I aim
to depict a distillation and observance of the passing of time, rather than a
photographic snapshot of a landscape, which represents a split second.
At times, the event of doing a painting can be very challenging. Finding and getting to
a location which has the right combination of elements, also being weather beaten and
insect bitten, standing too close to the edge on windy days sneaky freak waves, not to
mention close encounters with various animals are all part of the happening.
At times I am struck in wonderment, standing, painting the passing of a day as the
planet revolves around the sun” Neal Greig
Reception Details:
Date: Thursday April 6th
Time: 6 – 7.30pm
Guest Speaker: Minister for Arts, Heather Humphrey
Refreshments Served
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