The artist - Connection is the primary theme running through my work, whether through external interactions among people, or a more internal, metaphysical connection to self and nature. The work explores the shape and movement of connection and subsequent disconnection.
'Measuring Up’ incapsulates an intimate moment when friends momentarily unite after a spell of lockdown. It portrays young men caught out of a contextual stereotype, trying on a necklace for size.
The painting is one of a series of images: ‘Kitchen Connections’, created in response and in honour of the next generation of young adults, at their time of stepping out into the world. The paintings depict interactions and studies of my youngest son and his friends, when small meet ups were punctuated with intervals of lockdown and large parties were illegal, (save exclusively for our government, it transpires). Painted in oils, the aim has been to reflect pent up energy and vibrance of youth and their need for connection, trust and autonomy.