This painting is about making an emotional yet also
factual map of Orchil where I live. We are currently restoring the castle
depicted in the middle of the canvas. The painting has an energy which
captures the excitement and enthusiasm I have for the place. Over the
last year I have been experimenting with this new approach and style,
very different from the earlier work. I have been influenced by Mark
Rothko's use of colour to effect an emotion. The scale of this type of
work is important, making it difficult to exhibit in many London art
galleries. I want the painting to dominate rather than having the spectator
dominate the painting. This concept was explored by Rothko. I enjoy the
pattern making quality which due to its simplistic style introduces an
uplifting mood. The boldness is attributed to the surrounding Scottish
landscape which, due to the climate, is brash and powerful.
