Into the Woods
- Thornton Walker

The series of paintings of stylised trees and figures engaging in dance-like movement draw mainly from my unconscious. They have been worked on and transformed during the painting process until the end result often bares little resemblance to the initial under painting. The resulting works are like scenes from dreams or fairytales, not of this time or place, in which the participants enact a hidden narrative.

The pen and wash studies of Pohutukawa trees and rocky coves were painted ‘en plein air’ whilst in New Zealand in January’23. This is the landscape I explored in my childhood in the 1950’s and 60’s and they are a homage to my connection to that place and time.

Arranging still life compositions with bowls, fruit and folded cloth has been an abiding interest for me over many years. The unpredictable nature of watercolour combined with the precision of the drawing creates a tension which entices me, often resulting in exciting and unexpected results.

Thornton Walker, November 2023