Original artwork description:

‘Daphnis and Chloe – palate of mind’ is an acrylic painting 136x75cms on canvas. It is development from a smaller study of the same name. The painting has been made as part of series of works based on memories of places I have visited and/or stayed in over many years. In this case the painting refers to the Greek island of Lesvos where I have stayed on many occasions. The paintings in this series try to capture the sense of place through expressive use of colour, light, shadow and texture. ‘Daphnis and Chloe – palate of mind’ is based on a story set on the island of Lesvos during the 2nd century AD, where and when the author, Longus lived. It is a love story. It is a story of young love beginning with the main characters being ‘exposed by birth’ and therefore condemned. The main characters endure many difficulties but eventually ‘find’ each other. The story was famously illustrated by Marc Chagall. Its style is rhetorical and pastoral. Its shepherds and shepherdesses are wholly conventional, but the author imparts human interest to this idealised world. Daphnis and Chloe resembles a modern novel in so many ways. It is the inspiration behind this series of paintings together with fond memories of the climate, the glorious light, the sea …the pace of life on this beautiful island. The painting is made in respect of the literature and ancient history of this island famed by writers and poets. Lesvos is an island where I have always felt very comfortable and at home with the people. I know we’ll return soon. We miss it too much. Whenever I’m there I have time to dream think and plan. I am continually inspired by modern and contemporary artists who demonstrate such a love for colour and light. The Impressionists, John Hoyland, Barbara Rae , the Fauvists and the COBRA group continue to be so important to me. The boundaries of what can be managed in a painting present a constant challenge to me and through a process of layering, cancellation and improvisation my intention is always to test such boundaries.

Materials used:

Acrylic paint and dyes