My work is inspired by remote places and the concept of escape, whether real or imaginary. This could involve journeying into the wilderness, contemplating a flower, or delving into the realm of abstraction. The initial idea always revolves around transcending the reality of the subject – not too much, but just enough to envision the possibility of something otherworldly. I strive to convey an expression that captures the interplay of light and shadow, evoking a sense of movement and following the form.
A lot of my work is focused on mountains, particularly the Highlands of Scotland. These sculptural and flowing landscapes of immense age, a frozen movement of the Earth itself, solid but also very fluid and changing with the seasons, weather, and particularly light, give me endless inspiration. My process involves walking far into that landscape, often on multiday trips, collecting images and sketches on location, and finalizing the work in the studio.
In printmaking, I gravitate towards bold lines, high contrast, and a stylized form of expression. I work mostly using relief techniques (linocut and woodcut), but I particularly enjoy the process of making monotype/mixed media pieces, seeking spontaneity and unexpected results. Regardless of the chosen medium and mode of expression, I aim to allow the image to evolve organically, often leading to outcomes that differ from my initial intentions.
In this ever-evolving journey of artistic exploration, I am guided by the captivating allure of the unknown and the limitless possibilities it holds.
Education
2019 Foundation Printmaking, Gray’s School of Art
2009-2015 MArch Architecture, Scott Sutherland School of Architecture and Built Environment
2001 B.Sc (equivalent) Biology, International Sakharov Environmental University, Minsk, Belarus
Exhibitions
2024 Precious Little, The Old Lock Up Gallery, Cromford, UK
Now and Then: Dalkeith Palace, Visual Arts Scotland, Dalkeith, Scotland
Art Aboyne 2024, Artaboyne annual exhibition, Aboyne, Scotland
2nd Wild & Tamed, Blue Koi Gallery, virtual art exhibition
Alchemy, The Holy Art Gallery, London
2020, 2021 ASAPOP, Aberdeen Society of Architects art exhibition, various locations
2022 - 2024 Annual summer group exhibition, Upper Deeside Art Society (UDAS), Ballater
Awards
• John B Johnstone Prize 2015
• City of Aberdeen Architectural Medal for Civic Design 2012: commendation
• Purchase Prize, RGU Art and Heritage Collections, 2012, 2015
• Rob Hunter Award 2012: runner up
Commissions, Publications and Experience
• Cover image and illustrations for Aboyne Local Place Plan: (2024)
• The Holy Art Magazine – Issue 4 (London, 2024)
• Nuart Aberdeen 2023 – Artist Support volunteer
• Gray’s School of Art booklet – 57/10 Society Yearbook (Aberdeen, 2015)
• Purchase Prize, RGU Art and Heritage Collections 2012, 2015
• Past + Future - a residency at the British Pavilion as part of the 14th International Architecture Exhibition, La Biennale di Venezia, 2014. Member of team 4: Outsiders.
• ‘An act of conviction’: Gray’s School of Art, Michael Shewan, 1966. In collaboration with Penny Lewis. Scotland+Venice, 2014
• Private commissions
• Architectural visualisations
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