My process for the Sapling Forest series echoes the forest’s years of organic growth by building delicate layers of tone and texture, responding to the flora and character of each place.

Some layers are done by skimming the surface with rags to create organic marks that let Nature talk to me in her own language. Others have lots of water which adds movement and lets light through to bounce off the white surface, making the forest feel lit from within.

I love the unexpected in this process. It can be exhilarating and physical. Moving around a lot maintains a sense of energy and freedom that I hope comes through for viewers.

To create the patterns on tree trunks I guide clean water to run through directly-applied paint, carrying the colour as it will - much like rainwater creates seep stains on trees. Taping off the trunks at the start of the painting means I have virgin canvas which leaves the trees unlaboured, bright and alive.

Thank you for visiting my work at Splatter Gallery.