Scotland

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The Highlands and Island of the West Coast of Scotland have been my source of inspiration since 1988.

I moved to Ratagan near the Isle of Skye after graduating from Edinburgh College of Art and studying at the RCA in London.

These rugged landscapes and seascapes, continually enhanced by the seasons and weather, offer me a wealth of creative possibilities.

The coruscating light on water, in contrast to the deep, rich tones of a shadow are the things that I seek out and try to capture in my work. 

The kaleidoscope of seasonal colour and light drive my desire to capture this magic in paint and pastel.

I love to get out into the landscape, either working at my easel or in my sketchbook with a selection of inks, watercolours and pastels in order to capture the essence of a place. These works are sometimes finished in situ or are used back in my studio to inform bigger works.

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My mixed media process is to flood the paper with acrylic inks and watercolours, letting colours collide and mix. I feel that when you are not in complete control of a medium is when the magic can happen.

Once dry I use pastel to bring out some areas of detail. Using the side of the pastel allows the paint below to show through. I like the contrast of having areas that are highly worked against areas of simple lines or marks. Often I spend time deciding what not to add to a painting, as apposed to what to add.

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My work is sold in galleries throughout Scotland and online, selling to private collectors worldwide.

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Admirers of Helen's work have often commented on how the paintings make them feel transported to that place.

"You can take as many photos as you like, but the way Helen interprets the image in Pastel, adds an emotional depth."

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AWARDS

Sir William Gillies Award 

presented at the 142nd Royal Scottish Society of Painters in Watercolour Annual Open Exhibition 2023

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TO PURCHASE A PAINTING

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If you would like to purchase a painting, please use the contact button at the top of the page or click on my email address at the bottom of the page. Thank you.

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STUDIO VISITS

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Helen's studio is in Ratagan  IV40 8HX   9 miles east of Eilean Donan Castle. 

Please use the Contact button (Top left of page)  or phone 07802 545243 to make an appointment.

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COMMISSIONS

Helen accepts commissions. Please contact her for details.

ARTICLES IN PUBLICATIONS

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Scotland in 4 Seasons   Pages 76 - 78

https://scotlandin4seasons.co.uk/winter-2022-digital-edition/