Landscapes.

My art is not a mirror to reflect the world, but a cue to appreciate it - whether it is the solace of the hills, the energy of the coast or the lifeless hedgerows of winter under a leaden sky. My paintings, although closely observed, are not a true reflection of the subject. Instead they provide a cue to recall memories – whatever we look at meaning is derived from the content perceived and the memories evoked.

I generally use oils on board and occasionally use a base of reinforced plaster of paris to add a texture to my work. The landscapes I return to are the Northumbrian coast, Lindisfarne, Bamburgh and Dunstanburgh, but I also get inspiration from the countryside closer to home.

"Reaching the whaleback summit of Pillar was a double exhilaration – first, after the stillness, the buffeting gale, and second the fantastic skyscape. The sea and the Wasdale hills were blotted out by a gigantic curtain of ink-black cloud, topped by a level blanket of white cotton wool. And this blanket, lighted from above by the westering sun, glowed with fire – a rim of gold beneath the blue vault of sky."
^{Extract from Twin Pillars,  November 1977 – A.H. Griffin – A lifetime of mountains, 2005.}

Derby City Open Exhibition

From 29 Nov 2008 until 11 Jan 2009 two of my paintings were on display at Derby Art Gallery. Approximately 700 art works were entered and 100 selected. Derby City Open showcases the best of artists’ work from across the region and beyond.