Saturday 10 December 2011

The Aspect of Nature

Thoughts as I sit and drift in my studio...
the aspect of nature in my work.
The drawings are an expression of.....?
Shapes, forms, interfere, disrupt, harsh, strict, quiet colours.
My drawings are rarely seen or spoken about.

My studio
How & where should they be placed, hung, shown, exposed. 
Trees - they reference back to my landscape work, they highlight nature in a simple yet evocative way.
Delicacy, surrounded by the unfinished architectural chaos surrounding it. 
Is that how it looks, is the messgae clear to the viewer & does it need to be?
The painting does not say enough for me sometimes. 
What will my drawings do that my paintings do not?

'All Alone', own work

Sunday 6 November 2011

Trees

The lonely tree is standing strong in my work.  Where is this going?  Nature is crawling back into my work and I feel excited about it. I have almost missed it.  Finding my uni creative diary it has taken me back to that time...the thoughts, the comments, critiques, pathways.

Port Douglas, Australia


Grand Cayman, Caribbean

'Growing Towards The Light', recent work

Monday 10 October 2011

'As Nature Crawls Back' New Series

Two of my most recent paintings. Through thoughts, experiments and travels - the landscape seems to have crawled back into my work. These pieces will be on show in Hale at the end of this month, I am looking forward to getting feedback on this new series of work.


Sunday 25 September 2011

Small studies

Unknowingly, my recent studies have a striking resemblance to my 3rd year degree work. It seems my work has gone full circle, wrestling with the same thoughts and conflicts as I did in my final year.  The focus on my environment, the landscape and the effect we have on it, is a constant route of investigation for me.
Recent study

3rd year degree work

Monday 29 August 2011

It has been a strange couple of weeks.  Whilst feeling void of art in many ways and desperate to be working on something, my mind has been working overdrive but without me knowing it!!!  I have been dreaming about my work...waking up, with vivid ideas entangled in my mind.


My work is strongly fuelled by how we exist and live amongst our environment and how architecture is changing and remoulding our surroundings and experiences.  The trees that keep reoccurring in my work is something I am going to focus on.  For me, they reference back to my landscape work, highlighting nature in a simple yet evocative way.  They have the delicacy surrounded by the unfinished architectural chaos.  Is that how it is perceived? Is it clear to the viewer?


Painting - Drawing - Photography

What will/do my drawings say that my paintings do not? My drawings have always been quite private, very rarely seen or displayed yet I now feel keen to be working with pencil and paper to play around with ideas.

'Growing Towards The Light' by Victoria Ashworth
Whilst reading and drifting in my studio I discovered the artist Henrik Saxgren.  A series of photographs named 'Unintended Scultpures' is something he has been working on since 2001 and I was taken away by them.  Reading the article, it seems that whilst working on other projects
Saxgren discovered that he was also moved by the aesthetic implications of man’s impact on his environment.  The book, Unintended Sculptures, is the result of this revelation.
 In this series, 'Saxgren has assumed a new role, not as story-teller, but as artist-curator. His trained eye seizes on the details of our landscapes, on the everyday absurdities or our abandoned things and our constructions. His is an everyday Surrealism that delights in the play of light on a man-made structure or an abandoned airplane. With every image Saxgren argues “Why is this remnant of a Icelandic whaling station with its brick smokestack and boiler set against a fjord in the amazing light of the high north not worthy of being as valuable an art work as any painting or sculpture?” That is a fair question, and with it, Saxgren makes us look at what we would otherwise take for granted or outright ignore.'

Henrik Saxgren
Reading through this essay I love the quote by New York Time’s chief art critic, Michael Kimmelman, on the nature of art: The Accidental Masterpiece, On the Art of Life and Vice Versa (2005), in which he persuasively argues that “creating, collecting, and even just appreciating art can make living a daily masterpiece.”

Looking at another article, I was taken by this small snippet...'Tree lined avenues are some of the most visually attractive roads, and abandonment can transform them into some of the most mysterious.  Forgotten houses set back from the road, cracked pavements and tangled greenery demonstrate perfectly the battle between man and nature, and emphasise how quickly manmade structures crumble when nature is left to take its course.'

Links -

Saturday 30 July 2011

A recent discovery

Whilst surfing the internet, when I should have been working ;) I stumbled across a recent project by Chinese artist Jiang Pengyi...

'Urban Art: Unregistered Cities by Jiang Pengyi'

Though the artist mainly works in photography, this particular project focuses on cities, still objects and massive skyscrapers reduced to miniature sizes communicating his recurrent themes of excessive urbanization, redevelopment and demolition in the Beijing city. I was and am still mesmerized by these series of works. I not only love the concept behind his work but also the way in which he has portrayed his theme. Whilst obviously having a impeccable eye for photography I love that he has also brought in the crafted aspect for this particular series. 

Reading the article on urbanghostsmedia.com, 'The Unregistered Cities themselves appear in abandoned buildings but unlike those represented in Jiang Pengyi’s sculptures, their host abandonments are not the crumbling ruins of skyscrapers, road networks and high rise apartments - they are the last remnants of Beijing’s past, abandoned houses swallowed up by the same urban zeal that the artist seeks to counter.  Abandoned houses and historic civic buildings are popular venues for urban exploration, but few would expect to find miniature ghost cities artistically represented amid the ruins of real forgotten places.  Collectively, Jiang Pengyi’s urban artworks speak to our sense of past and underscore the relentless pace of the present.'

All images are by Jiang Pengyi, via Blindspot Gallery 

Wednesday 22 June 2011

An Inspiring Bus Ride

Wow a recent a-n magazine literally blew me away. With an 8 month back log of a-n mags I decided to delve into the most recent release. Daniel Fawcett's view on art & film really got me thinking.                            

'Today's culture is a tired man - he trudges along overweight and sick, replete with things no longer good for him.  He needs a new art. That art is film.'

Reading the magazine also opened my mind to the idea of studying for an MA, I feel like I may have reached the point where I am 'ready'.  Reading the magazine, questions were ticking over in my mind, what makes these artists go for it? Is an MA the turning point for artists, where their work really takes a hold of them and their style really sets in?  Am I pining for that deep submerging of mind and soul into the depths of study and questioning?


Sunday 19 June 2011

Returning Home



Returning home...what a weird feeling it was! For the first few days well the first week in fact, I just didn't feel myself at all - I felt like I wasn't really here! Everywhere I went, I felt dazed and distracted but an unexpected afternoon on a boat turned into a refreshing and inspiring cruise through the waterways of Manchester, a great welcome home :)



Monday 13 June 2011

There are things in life that cannot be beaten :)
Ashworth BBQ...whatever the weather

Sunday 12 June 2011

The Scenic Way Home - Arriving & Leaving

Arriving in Washington I was so full of emotions, we had finally reached our last stop...the end of a 32 week working and travelling adventure. I felt ready to cry at any moment.  But not out of complete sadness, I also felt happy and overjoyed for what we had achieved, the wonderful places we had seen and the journey we had gone through together. 

A beautiful row of houses, just over the road
from the White House!
With four nights in this city we were going to make the most out of these last few days :)  From start to end this short stay was intense, I think that is one of the best ways to describe it.  The Government, the military and the endless war history all seem to dominate this city in quite an intimidating and aggressive way but beneath this there is a clean, impressive city to be explored. Dodging the uniformed figures and security checks we found some great drinking holes and eateries and even managed to squeeze in a day out to Baltimore :) 
Sketching in absolute peace :)
Many hours were spent exploring the vast museums, soaking up the artwork and artefacts.  My favourite moment was when I discovered the quiet courtyard set in the middle of the Arthur M. Sackler gallery. It was so peaceful and a great escape from the over admitted museums along the Mall.  In this moment I sat and thought and sketched and it was wonderful.

With our flight date fast approaching it was hard to imagine that within a few days we would be back on English soil! But that day did arrive...and wow it was an amazing feeling.  Seeing England for the first day after 8 months was unbelievable.

Peering out to the land below, I was crying tears of joy, relief, excitement to see my family and friends and anticipation of what will come next.

Things to be surely missed - all those delightfully blue skies, the laid back lifestyle of Australia, New Zealand and Big Island, the delicious flavours of Fiji, the longboards of Waikiki, the humid wall of heat that hits you leaving bars at 3am, running along the beach at sunset, sitting on the rocks at Coolangatta watching the world go by...


Things to look forward to - ahhhh home sweet home, hills - big rolling green ones :), living without the fear of snakes or sharks, woolly winter coats, my studio den and most importantly this next chapter in my life.....

Thursday 2 June 2011

The Scenic Way Home - The Last Stretch Of Road


Driving from Charleston up to Washington was an interesting experience, an insight into the weird and wonderful ways of America. A short stop in Myrtle beach was cut even shorter when we realised how uninteresting it was. The most 'beautiful' thing I could find was the bird illustration on the motel sign!  But for me, the most enjoyable part of this drive was not the stops we made but the sitting, drifting, looking out of the car window looking at the little towns and villages that we were moving through.  I was fascinated by the homes I saw, the green lush grass surrounding the houses. The lack of fences and pavements, instead just endless green :) 
And then when the land opened up you would get a glimpse of these ramshackle sheds and buildings. Beautiful pastels; pale turquoise and soft peach.  When finally arriving at our motel for the night, we could feel a change in temperature, the humidity had gone and we knew we were getting closer to home.

Charleston, South Carolina


The next place we arrived at was Charleston and it turned out to be one of my favourite places.  I loved this little city for its wonderful architecture and undeniable charm. Like Savannah, here in Charleston there was a real sense of history and culture.  The food was hearty and delicious and the people were so friendly.
Walking around the streets, the sun was shining bright creating the most wonderful shadows on the ground and I couldn't help but stare at the fabulous homes that we walked past.  I was so taken by the beautiful colours of the stone, the letter boxes, the blossoming flowers...I was mesmerised! And by night it became an enchanting place..a mixture of relaxed dining, casual drinking and even rooftop swimming...you choose :)

Rooftop pool bar :)

Wednesday 1 June 2011

Inspiration in Savannah

Walking along the streets of Savannah, with only the glow from shop windows and a few street lights, I couldn't help but notice this special little gallery.  I loved this particular piece. A beautiful culmination of painting, sculpture and light.

Tuesday 31 May 2011

Up Through Florida and Into Georgia :)

Leaving South Florida, we set off early to arrive in Orlando for a few nights stay in Disney. Not your usual backpackers stop but a welcome treat for a few nights :)  Having visited Disney with family it holds a special place in our hearts, as a reminder of the many memories created here.  Visiting with a slightly different outlook, I started to notice the wonderful architecture of the hotels especially the Contemporary (pictured below). Though we were sad to leave our luxury pad we headed north onto Savannah and arrived early evening in time to enjoy to an evening explore of this new city.  Arriving here we were hit by a wave of culture and history that we had not yet seen in America.
The Contemporary



Savannah, Georgia

Saturday 28 May 2011

Miami to Washington D.C - The Road Trip Begins

After leaving the boat, we began our 1000 mile drive up to Washington D.C, but not before a cruise around the beautiful South Beach, it was such an inspiring drive...an architectural feast :) Art Deco buildings everywhere! The sun was beaming down, the restaurants and cafes were full with families celebrating Mother's day and the streets were bustling with rollerskaters and convertibles. It was fabulous!

South Beach, Miami

North bound our drive will take us through Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Virginia and even a sneak into Maryland! Cannot wait! :)

Thursday 26 May 2011

A Night of Salvador & Walt

Cadaques, where Dali spent many years of his life
(painting by Victoria Ashworth)
Whilst on the ship, there was a preview of Dali & Disney's joint animation 'Destino'. I wasn't quite sure what to expect but it turned out to be quite an inspiring evening :) The short animation is an unexpected collaboration between two geniuses of creativity and I loved it!

Wednesday 25 May 2011

The Scenic Way Home - Seven Days Of Luxury

Months ago, whilst still in Australia, we booked ourselves onto a seven day cruise travelling through the Western Caribbean and down to Mexico and the day had finally arrived to board the ship :) It was so great knowing we were on the ship for seven days and we could unpack! It was luxury!

Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman
Over the seven days we travelled to four different places including Mexico, Belize, Roatan and Grand Cayman.  Grand Cayman was our first stop and it was a beautiful and inspiring little island. It was the first time I had been to the West Indies and I was not disappointed. The town, which is where you arrive first off the boat, has an initimate village feel to it. I loved pottering round the streets, discovering the street artwork and learning about the Islands history.  The people we met on this island seemed to have a real sense of pride for their history and were so kind and welcoming.  Walking onto Seven Mile Beach was breathtaking...I was sad to leave Grand Cayman.

Grand Cayman & it's varied architecture...see the thatched
beach hut compared to the modern building behind!
After a night of eating, dancing and the odd flutter at the black jack table, we arrived in Roatan the next day.  This was the most inactive day for us, spending a few hours reading, bathing and sipping cocktails! :) Roatan was a weird and wonderful little beach haven but not much for culture vultures like us.

Roatan
Our next stop, Belize was just what we needed after a quiet day the day before. Stepping off the boat you were bombarded with locals trying to sell you a trip around the city and their country. After a little haggling, we agreed on a day tour including a drive out to Altun Ha, the Mayan Ruins and a walk through the rainforest.
A stroll through the varied rainforest
of Belize was a delight, mud free and containing
a croc infested pond - great fun!

What a day we had!! It was great fun, even if a little off the wall! Picture this...a scruffy looking minibus packed with 13 people including 3 kids, 2 prams, a slightly crazy Belize man driving and us two squeezed in! Unforgettable!

The Waterway Through Belize

The most delicious beer
ever...not biased at all :) 
Our final port was Cozumel. We were sad that it was our last stop but very excited to be visiting Mexico!! A gentle walk along the coastal road took us into Cozumel's heart.  Our day was spent passing in and out of the pastel coloured buildings, drinking beer and wandering through the spotless streets. I really loved Cozumel for it's colour, fresh food and laid back atmosphere. I will definitely be back!

Cozumel, Mexico
Arriving back in Miami after a day at sea, it was hard leaving our little cabin but we were excited about where we were heading next...


Wednesday 18 May 2011

The Scenic Way Home - Over To The East Coast of America

Long Beach
Leaving Los Angeles from Long Beach airport, we made an afternoon of it and managed to stumble on a food and wine festival on the Long Beach harbour front and also a look at the Queen Mary.  Trusting public transport to be reliable, we had quite a nerve racking experience nearly missing our flight...it was such relief when we arrived at check-in to find out the flight was delayed and check-in closes 1/2 hour before, not the usual 1 hour!!!!!!!

The Everglades

Arriving in Fort Lauderdale we were hit by the warm Florida humidity and a familiar friendly face who was also our tour guide for the next few days! :)

Waking up the next day, we went to the Everglades and managed to catch a glimpse of an alligator! Even though everyone was pleased to see it, there was a sigh of relief as the boat took us back to safety!

Sunday 15 May 2011

The Scenic Way Home - Los Angeles

Hollywood, Los Angeles wow! What a place! Walking along the Walk of Fame you are faced with so many animated characters, such a small area that is surrounded by a beautiful landscape and everywhere seems to smell like flowers! Strange I know but only in Hollywood:) With only a few days in Los Angeles, I think we made the most of our time. Newport Beach was beautiful...what a setting!! Beverley Hills, Rodeo Drive...the sun was beaming down as we cruised around :) Griffith Observatory...arrived just as the sun was setting! 

 I finished my L.A visit with an arty explore at the Getty Center, an architectural masterpiece with views over Bel Air. It was so tranquil...the perfect end to my visit to the West coast.

Saturday 7 May 2011

The Scenic Way Home - We're going to San Franciscooo

San Francisco...what a great city and so much bigger than I thought it would be. Great architecture, endless streets that you are desperate to explore but your feet are worn out from all the walking you have been doing!! You can't help being temped by all the delicious smells drifting out from the endless eateries.  I found the place just fascinating.  There are insanely steep hills at every corner, a city like no other!! 
All these words come to mind when thinking of San Francisco...rustic and intriguing, contemporary and quirky, traditional and beautifully ornate...I hope to go back there one day :)