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Batik is a daily activity for me, and has been
since my teens, when I was introduced to it in an art lesson at
school.
Drawing and colour are my main interests and I find batik is
the perfect medium to combine and express both. All my batiks
start with a detailed drawing directly
onto the cotton; which has to give as much information as possible and be bold
to withstand numerous dye baths.
I work figuratively using wax as a painting medium, applying
it with a range of brushes, cantings and kyskas to achieve fine
detail, subtle tones, texture and rhythm.
I studied Art at Goldsmiths in the early eighties, when my style
of work wasn’t
fashionable. The experience opened my eyes but left me determined to be true
to myself. Fortunately I was fueled by a desire to explore and create and felt
strongly that batik was my chosen medium. My work is inspired by colour, natural forms, people and the
world around me. Portraits are my forte and I get regular commissions.
I find them challenging and rewarding, allowing much scope for
the imagination and creative process.
Over time my work has evolved and I’d like to think that my technique
has improved, but there is often a boldness and clarity in earlier work. There
is still so much to discover and learn about batik and I have many projects
I want to explore. Having recently completed the commissioned portrait of Joseph
I am now working on a series of themed batiks. I draw from life
when ever possible and these batiks will involve life study.
My studio is next to the house; conveniently close, but separate
enough to avoid domestic distractions. I have had two exhibitions
in 2008 and now have
four portraits lined up, so I need to keep busy! The Batik Guild is a great source of information and inspiration
for batik artists. It enables us to make contact with kindred spirits,
compare notes, discuss methods and pass on useful tips.
Batiks shown in the web Gallery are so varied; it is sometimes
hard to believe they have been made using the same technique.
It goes to show just how versatile
this medium is.
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