Artist Pip Cleeland is holding an exhibition, “Nature’s Day” at Leeson Street Gallery next month.
The exhibition runs from November 4 – 19, with a special opening event on November 5, from 2pm – 5pm.
Pip said she draws inspiration from the island and its surroundings.
“I recognise the organic creative spirit of the island and try to strive to engage in the raw elements of the land,” she said.
“I am a nature lover so I’m always looking at the landscape … I am looking for that vital spark – an emotional connection. Light, movement and colour are key to my process using the paint, almost like sculpturing.”
Born in Scotland and now living on Phillip Island, Pip says when she’s in Australia “I am definitely aware that I’m not in Scotland anymore!”
“There’s a different feeling in every place, and that’s what makes every place individual, special and alive.”
Inspired by abstract expressionist style, including Scottish artists Joan Eardley and Marion Drummond, as well as Turner, Monet and Fred Williams, Pip also draws inspiration from her own family.
Her aunt Elizabeth Orange is a sculptor and painter, while another aunt, Jan Wilkins is a retired teacher who began sculpting in 1988.
Her brother James is currently working in Los Angeles as a character designer and visual development artist.
Pip’s artwork is created on a variety of surfaces including canvas, board, cardboard and driftwood, using oils, gouache, watercolour, pen and ink.
She enjoys working in watercolour, “as it is quick and easy to capture the moment”.
“There is a speediness in putting down paint – what I see and feel is paramount.
“I feel like I am at one with the window into nature.
“I remind myself not to be too structured, to allow the element of chance, to allow the subject to talk.
“I use a combination of perspective, light, tone, contrast and depth, breathing and vibrant.
“I don’t draw things exactly because to me this ruins the feel.”
The title of the current exhibition, “Nature’s Day”, reflects Pip’s interest in the natural world.
“It’s almost like nature is having its turn to express itself. I just happen to be the painter, and I follow nature’s flow through the seasons.
“I describe this exhibition as a visual voyage: by looking through a window using my eyes and all my senses and very quickly capturing the essence of that particular moment.
“Then the viewer has access to a moment and can reinterpret using their own perception.”
Pip Cleeland – “Nature’s Day” exhibition at Leeson Street Gallery, in Cowes, from November 4 until November 19.
Open Wednesday to Monday, 11am to 3pm. Closed Tuesday.
Opening event – Sunday November 5, 2pm – 4pm.
/ Sponsored article /