Reflections
Steph Smith
8th September until 19th November 2021
The main subject of these paintings is the reflection of landscape on the surface of rivers, ponds and lakes. As many of the titles suggest, they also record the passage of time.
Here, as with all of her work, Steph has created several versions of an image - both large and small - using various media. Each painting informs the making of the next in the series.
Process is key in these works. They are as much about the sensuous materiality of the paint as the subjects and landscapes they evoke. Steph applies oil paint in a variety of consistencies ranging from thin washes to areas of thicker impasto. Working from drawings, photographs and memory, many layers of oil paint are applied, scraped away and reapplied until the desired mood is achieved.
Colour, too, features strongly. Whilst in some works the colour of the paint is subdued, others use heightened, vibrant colour combinations to express the feeling, or experience of being in a particular place. The resulting work is an emotional response rather than a representation of a real view.
This multi-layering of translucency and the suspension of pigment on the surface of the canvas makes it seem almost as if the reflection of the trees may sway in the breeze and the blossom will disappear into the water.
Biography
Steph Smith is a contemporary artist based at Wimbledon Art Studios in London.
The recurring themes of moonlit forests, glowing streetlights and snow falling on watery depths originate from Steph’s childhood in North East England and Northumberland, with it’s dramatic landscape and expansive waterways.
She originally trained as a ceramicist before developing painting as part of her creative practice.
Steph has exhibited widely in group and juried exhibitions, and has work in private collections in the UK and overseas.
Contact information:
Mobile: 07946508258
Instagram@stephsmithartist