janet bourne

My current paintings are about the relationship between layers. They are concerned with abstract memories of landscape. The viewer can glance at the image and deconstruct through their experiences and memories, what is behind the layers of brush strokes. I create networks of colour to allow the viewer to question whether the layers are merged or formed into shapes to create the notion of space, a space that confirms the artist’s inner world.

Through colour I attempted to create tension and spontaneity between the layers. My painting process is deeply related to the accumulation of solidity and luminosity between layers. Confusion between the layers causes unexpected pull and push between the layers. The notion of past and present, movement and stillness, tension and harmony, control and the random through transparency of pigments and the juxtaposition of warm and cool hues are paramount in my practice.

Exposure of my intimate experiences reinforce intimacy, my private activities beyond the surface of the painting are open to public view. The viewer and artist are repeatedly disrupted between the tension and harmony between the layers of paint. The viewer is asked to question their position inside and outside the painting.

Trust in the ambiguity of the painting.

• 2008 Slade College of Art UCL
• 2003-04 MA Fine Art,
• Central Saint Martins, London
• 2001-03 BA (Hons First Class) Fine Art,
• Staffordshire University.
• 1999-01 HND/Fine Art,
• Newcastle-under-Lyme College of Art.
• 1998-99 Foundation in Art,
• Newcastle-under-Lyme College of Art.