Solace VIII, 2023

Abi Whitlock  

Artist Statement:

Abi Whitlock's work focuses predominately on the human form and how the mind and body are affected when immersed in water. This is mirrored by the way light is refracted and reflected, distorting and enhancing colour and shape. Whitlock captures the way entering the water enables the swimmer to enter an altered state of mind; a form of escapism from the real world.

Her inspiration comes from a recent move to coastal Devon, trips to the beach and outdoor pools. The way she works puts great emphasis on minute detail. This imparts every aspect of the painting with value and depth which in turn gives the observer the sense that they themselves are becoming immersed along with the swimmer.

Although Whitlock works in a hyperrealist style; the way she paints water creates natural abstraction within her pieces. Water and its interplay with light generate unusual, distorted and complex patterns, altering the perception of everyday images. In some of her most recent work, she also includes the technique of acrylic pouring; using the natural fluidity of paint to mimic the fluidity of water. The vivid, marbled colours and the uncontrolled way they flow across the canvas creates a sense of freedom in the work; a sharp contrast to the tight photorealist element to her paintings.

Education:

Self-Taught

Awards & Distinctions:

Shortlisted for Artists and Illustrators 'Artist of the Year' Award 2018?

?CASS Young Artist award at the National Open Art Competition 2016

??Creative Award for 'With the Current' chosen by Lawrence Alkin Gallery 2016

Exhibitions:

Group Exhibition, The Wey Gallery, Godalming, August 2018
Solo Exhibition, 'Breathe' Lawrence Alkin Gallery, Soho, July 2018
Artists & Illustrators' Artist of the Year, Mall Galleries, London, February 2018
Group Exhibition, Kennaway House, Sidmouth 2017
Underneath, Lawrence Alkin Gallery, Soho, April 2017
Summer Mix, Lawrence Alkin Gallery, Soho, 2017
?National Open Art Competition, Mercers Hall, London, 2016
NOA Prizewinner's Exhibition, Pallant House, Chichester, 2016
?A Slice of Pink Cake, The Pie Factory, Margate, 2015

Artistic Influences:

Influenced by the photorealist and hyperrealist movements. Inspired by artists such as Alyssa Monks and Eric Zener

Tags:

swimming, hyperreal, underwater, water paintings, swimming pool, swimmer