A self-taught artist exploring a diverse range of materials and techniques, my focus is often on the process of creation itself. My work includes mixed media paintings, ceramic animal sculptures, pots and plates, oil paintings and collage. Continually learning and exploring, I have recently extended my practice into decorating lampshades and papier mache masks, and digital work using Procreate.
My ceramic work is often hand built, to produce an off-kilter and natural feel. My pots and plates are rough and askew, decorated with sculptural portraits influenced by the Bloomsbury Group; while animal forms such as dogs, birds and crocodiles, all in a naive and abstract style, are finished with bright pigments to create a playful contrast. For works on paper, I use a range of materials, from spray paint, watercolours and acrylics to oils and oil sticks — often incorporating myriad materials into one piece of work, enjoying the versatility and textures this practice allows.
My subject matters are taken from life, and are a way for me to communicate my feelings and experiences to others, with the use of colour and mark-making to express my mood. I often depict figures, faces, animals, florals and still life, all in an abstract and naive way, to explore womanhood, ritual, motherhood and the simplicity of everyday life. For me, art is a ritualistic and meditative process which aids in de-stressing and gives me space to explore current thoughts, feelings and events, whether personal or social. I may use motifs such as animals, children’s toys, flowers and expressive faces to get down onto paper my lived experience, as a memory device and to explore both my inner and outer world. Colour is evocative in its own right, and my use of bold, textured marks and bright colours is designed to have an emotional impact as well as represent my own emotional state.
For purchases and commissions, please get in touch.
Robyn Holmes 