Cara Gaskell

As a “self-taught” visual artist (within technique not theory) on an anti-hierarchical approach to art making.

Delving deeper into the idea and theory of hiraeth; rough translation – a feeling of loss, homesickness/longing for a home you cannot return to/never had to begin with. Hiraeth has a deeper meaning though, if Cymraeg derives as an ancient language of poetry and myth, surely hiraeth lends more of a mystical significance, a longing for land, loved ones and a deep loss of connection to our spirituality and nature.

Starting the method of walking through Welsh landscape and seascape. Photography and film documentation, helping influence colour palette, textures and techniques used.

Then in a meditative/trance – like state when painting. Chance being the main focus of the painting. Using an array of techniques from lyrical-like brush gestures to paint rollers, dripping, relaying, spraying, scratching, line work and merging.

With a democratic approach leading only the viewer to see us the way they want to, or in contrast how we want to (just as in nature with variables of tide, weather and climate). Through deep colours, creating a huge movement to infer the expression of the sea and power within nature, this is developed through the use of layers, taken away and added, canvases handmade and repurposed wood, painting through acrylic, charcoal, oil, ink, pen.

“IMPRESSIONS OF EXPRESSION” – Brice Marden

Finding one’s own gravity within the painting through negative space and darkness. Painting through emotions rather than thought out motions, actions and planning.  

A journey throughout the unconscious mind, a path that leads you to be fully consumed within the means of ‘hiraeth’.