Hedge

Captivated by a mysterious hedge dividing fields in Weston Turville. Birds sing, creating an atmosphere of wonder and unease. "Hedge" painting embodies nature's duality and celebrates life's simple pleasures. Vibrant and enigmatic.

Walking through Weston Turville, Buckinghamshire, I was captivated by fields divided by a mysterious hedge. The dark mass of branches obscured its features, while birds sang a symphony within, creating an almost fearful atmosphere. In contrast, the two fields on either side of the hedge felt liberating, free from the heavy shape of the hedge. On the horizon, a line of trees defined the sense of what lay beyond.

Inspired by this scene, I translated it into a painting. Using oils, I contrasted the reddish browns and verdant greens of the fields against the enigmatic hedge. The clear sky served as a perfect backdrop, while I intentionally obscured the hedge's features to evoke a sense of wonder and unease.

"Hedge" is a tribute to nature's duality, combining observation and creativity. The complementary colours of red, orange, and green add vibrancy and the contrasting emotions of the scene. This painting embodies the balance between mankind's curiosity and the natural world's secrets, celebrating the interplay between liberation and mystery found in life's simple pleasures.

"Hedge" has been shortlisted for the SAA Professional Artist of the Year 2023.