Sacred Drift

2017

240 x 120 cm

Woodcut print on cotton with stretcher

This print was hand carved and printed in Oaxaca city, Mexico in 2017. It is part of a series of prints I did whilst on residency at Convivio, an arts and events spaces in the centre of town.

Over 7 weeks I explored Oaxaca state as well as the city. What is fascinating about this area is the varied geography and therefore wide range of climates within easy reach. This is a self portrait of the time i spent there, exploring my spirituality through interacting with the rich and vibrant culture and welcoming communities of this beautiful part of Mexico.

Everything here feels heightened, positive as well as negative energies rise quickly her. It is a very powerful place, and often feels like i am viewing the world through saturated colours, accentuated light and dark - contrast. Nothing is subtle or pallid here.

This piece took a month to carve and by the end of it I had lost the feeling in my fingers on my right hand. Carving is such a beautiful process, a real meditation as well as a direct dialogue with the wood. You have a plan, a composition in your mind, and then the wood has another idea. The knots and grain dictate and force you to reconsider and shift your perspective.

NB: This print does not come with a mount or frame. Please contact me if this is something you would like to arrange. From Jan 2016 custom frames will be available. 

This Print is part of the Summer Swimming Series 2015. It was done during the Exerk swimming challenge organised by the wonderful woman Annie Ross. 

2 colour Risograph print

210 x210 mm 

UK P&P included

Limited edition of 20 prints in this colour way

Where is your favourite swimming spot in London?

in 2015 I completed a series of drawings based on my connection with water in London and it's vital role in keeping me sane and able to live in a frenetic city.

Swimming is essential to my wellbeing. My main outdoor swimming spots in the capital are: The ladies pond in hampstead heath, the London Fields Lido and the Serpentine Lido. I have also recently discovered the West Reservoir in North London too which is wonderful!

There is nothing more cleansing than a dip in the open air, a communing with nature, a little hello to the ducks, or a stroking of your arm by a passing leaf.

Title: Serpentine Lido

Year: 2015

Original medium: Japanese fountain pen

Print: Two colour risograph Print (black and fluro pink)

Size: 29x29cm

Available in two colour ways - black and pink or gold and pink

Note: UK postage included. Contact me direct for international postage

 The ladies pond on hampstead heath is a sacred little spot for me. It has seen me in many moods, has healed many wounds.

I once heard a couple of ladies in the changing room talking after a winter dip, saying how much more pressure on the mental heath services of the NHS there would be in the borough if the ponds didn't exist. And I completely agree.

When I am in a bit of a slump or feel like I am heading in a downward spiral, I prescribe myself a swim a day in the ponds to sort myself out. It works everytime.

Try it!

(ps. This was drawn before the refurbishment was done in case you wonder why the building looks different!)

Title: Kenwood Ladies Pond, Hampstead Heath, London

Year: 2015

Original medium: Japanese fountain pen

Print: Two colour risograph Print (teal and fluro pink)

Size: 29x29cm

Price: £80 including UK P&P (dm for international postage)

Available in two colour ways - black and pink or teal and pink

Original watercolour and ink on watercolour paper 2024 

Since moving back to Edinburgh I’ve been drawn to the  sea on a regular basis, spending late Summer and Autumn  taking my painting kit to explore the beaches of East  Lothian.  

Tyningham beach is one of my very special places - there  is magic there.  

This is a plein air painting, done on the beach, check out  the sand stuck to the ink!  

Authentication certificate available

Size - 59x21cm

Original, Unframed