The River Nidd

Take a walk along the River Nidd.

I am strongly influenced by ecological and environmental changes. My work is a symbolic representation, using traditional artist’s materials alongside handmade earth pigments that are foraged from the depicted painting's location. I capture an emotional response with colour and complex layering processes.

The River Nidd during this autumn is one of the most magical times of the year. I am always captured and inspired by the vibrancy of colours that Mother Nature welcomes us with eager to put paint on paper to capture the River Nidd during this season.

When I paint plein air, I slow down and connect with nature. Sitting by the riverside I take time to observe the river's flow while listening to the bird song. Looking beneath my feet I find fallen acorns scattered among the autumn leaves. I cast my eyes upon the tiny varied colours of the lichen anchored tightly to the woodland fallen soles, that will continue life for many more species to come. I enjoy the nature that surrounds me while I walk along the banks of the river Nidd. To be immersed and to be inspired by nature's palette is a delight this time of year.

I have been very concerned to hear reports in the news about the decline of our rivers and how they are becoming more and more polluted, from contributing factors such as sewage, and agricultural industrial chemicals.  Our rivers are not only vital for the ecosystem that thrives in clean waters but they are also our life source. We can not survive without water.