Landscape Artist Helen L Robertson

Scotland

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 on paper.

I love to get out into the landscape with my sketchbook and a selection of inks and pastels in order to capture the essence of a place.

There's no better feeling than being out in the elements, watching the light racing across the landscape or sitting on an empty beach waiting patiently for the sun to return from behind the clouds.

I often use a stick or feather that I have found and ink to give unpredictable, expressive marks. These sketches along with photographs are then used to inform larger works painted back in my studio.

Pastels have been my choice of medium for over 30 years now, as I love their immediacy and tactile qualities. The depth of colour and ability to layer the pigment on top of each other, gives a sense of richness and texture that I love.

I relish the challenge of conveying the reflective qualities of wet sand or the sunlight hitting the foam of a wave, with this dry medium.

Mixed media is my other passion. I flood the paper with acrylic inks, 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 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.

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

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."

TO PURCHASE A PAINTING

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.

STUDIO VISITS

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 01599 511377 to make an appointment.

COMMISSIONS

Helen accepts commissions. Please contact her for details.