Expressive, abstract mixed media art by Rachel James
This was an exciting experiment in discordant colours, which are colour combinations that contrast, clash, or “fight” rather than harmonize. Yep, got that! I also wanted it to be a simple multi-directional composition. I used painted newsprint for the stems which is surprisingly difficult to control. I love the unexpected result.
Who doesn’t love purple and blue pansies? The rich colours and velvety texture; nature is wonderful. I love how this has come together. I did a lot of work studying the distinctive foliage ‘clusters’ and feel happy with the form and how the leaves have blended into the inky, textured background to give depth. The colours are so fresh and bright.
I’d been exploring darker, moody, Autumn colours and I really needed a blast of rainbow colours. I have created three paintings inspired by the winter pansies planted in my gravel pot garden which have flowered throughout the change of seasons.
I love this all-over-design on handcut board featuring cream roses; the composition is influenced by my past life as a textile design student. I enjoy reusing and recycling materials and incorporating everyday life into my paintings; I printed these rose stems with Amazon packaging. Great texture!
This is the second of three paintings inspired by the winter pansies planted in my gravel pot garden which are brightening up Autumn.
