|
The Artwork
All the original pieces are in acrylic on canvas patterned acrylic paper, and take anywhere between a day and a week or more to complete depending on the complexity and size of the design.
All the knotwork and zoomorphics are originals based on designs that are readily available, the most famous of these sources being The Lindisfarne Gospels and The Book of Kells, but many more examples can be found by searching, (please take a look here.. learn more)
I try not to straight copy any design so as to keep my work more original and contemporary, taking inspiration from my surroundings, for example the Rainbow Lorrikeets and Ibises I see in Australia, and from archaeological finds, manuscripts and other resources now readily available on the internet, hopefully without loosing the original spirit and beauty of the artwork.
Traditionally The interlacing knotwork is one ‘cord’ but by using breaks in the knotwork at regular and planned intervals two or more ‘cords’ can be produced making the works more visually interesting by using contrasting or complimentary colouring.
I don’t usually work from sketches unless I’m working on a specific designs idea, most usually if I’m doing a commission where I like to work closely with the customer to ensure they are happy with the final artwork. this takes longer and can sometimes be frustrating as I want to ‘race’ ahead but people often have a specific idea and I would like to help them realise it.
My usual method of working is to pick up pencil and paper, ruler and compass and just start, inspired by anything from a colour to an animal, a glass of wine by my side and something on the stereo, (anything from Pennywise to The Levellers, NOFX to June Tabor) this method usually works for me, sometimes doesn’t, and I often find the final design is far different from what I envisioned even at the half way stage, working out knotwork ‘cords’ on the interlacing, ensuring an ‘over and under’ on the ears and tails etc, of zoomorphics, it’s a fascinating and engrossing past time which I actually find very soothing.
|
