SPRING UPDATE
A big late Spring hello from Fisher Barn Studio! I do hope that wherever you are reading this from, it is both warm and sunny and you've had a chance to enjoy a few days outside.
University Residency
Since my last update, I've been busy with a number of projects including a residency at the University of Chichester. This took place from October to January, so was the perfect antidote to the winter blues, something many of us can relate to I am sure. I joined two fellow artists, both ex-students of the Fine Art course as we endeavoured to explore different aspects of our practice. Each of us wanted to try something we hadn't done before, which for me meant going very large-scale.
The huge studio provided by the University gave me the chance to make my own frames again (I'd forgot how much fun that was) but also a chance to experiment a bit more. I love making a mess as I think it frees up my brain, without the worry about the walls in my home studio. Sadly, the Fine Art course was closed to new students from 2025 (don't get me started on the short-sightedness of this), leaving the 2nd and 3rd years with not only a sense of unrest but also less social interaction. The residency programme really helped lift both our spirits over the winter period. During my time, I completed 2 smaller paintings and the underpainting for my triptych, Feeling Small. The whole process created a shift in perspective as I approached Spring.
Website Update
I have had lots of issues with my website and also my newsletter function via GoDaddy, so have switched to Shopify. Apologies if you signed up last year and did not receive any newsletter updates. My new website is currently being updated but once live again, I shall have a selection of original woodcut, etched prints and screen-prints for sale, as well as some art prints taken from 2 of my larger paintings. These are printed on thick 300gms antique silk card and come with a mount, ready to frame so offer great value if you're looking for something smaller. If there is a particular painting of mine that you'd love to have a print of, please let me know.
Chichester Art Trail & Upcoming Exhibitions
Chichester Art Trail (Open Studios)
The last 2 weekends were busy as I opened my studio for the 2nd year as part of the Chichester Open Studios. Along with fellow artist friend, Bel Lowe we showcased some of the pieces we had been working on during the last year. It was lovely to meet some new faces (thank you if you were one of them) and I look forward to seeing you again soon. In the meantime if you would like a studio visit, just drop me an email and we can arrange a time to suit.
Sullington Summer Exhibition
From the 11–21 June, I'll be exhibiting at Sullington Manor Farm alongside 24 other artists and makers in their Summer Exhibition. It's a beautiful location with a fantastic cafe serving delicious coffee and cakes, so please go along and explore if you have the chance.
The Old Workshop, Sullington Manor Farm, RH20 4AE
11–21 June 2026 | 10am – 4pm
The Art of the Abstract — Oreofe Gallery
After Sullington, I'll be exhibiting 2 pieces of work, Do you remember the Peak and Cuban Haze, both of which have been selected for 'The Art of the Abstract', a pop-up curated and presented by Banke Jemiyo for The Oreofe Art Gallery. The exhibition brings together 8 artists currently working in abstraction, and will showcase a variety of both 2D and 3D works.
14 Market Place, Woodstock, Oxfordshire, OX20 1TA
22–28 June 2026 | 10am – 5pm
Framing
Since the end of the residency I've been finishing a number of smaller pieces as well as my large triptych. I've also delved into the minefield that is framing. Am sure you've all experienced this yourself when choosing a simple frame for a photo you love. Well, scale that up and you can imagine the choices to consider when choosing the right frame for a painting, print or works on paper — that is if you choose to frame it at all. You need to consider the style, material, colour, glazing, backing and hanging options. All of these have an impact on the piece of work, as the right frame should enhance the work as opposed to distracting from its original intention. I found some wonderful St. Ives frames for some smaller paintings and a range of tray frames for the medium sized works but when it came to larger pieces I find myself faced with more difficult decisions. Frame choice seems more limited and much more costly. Could the choices I made deter potential interest? Large artwork is such a personal investment and people tend to look for something that complements their interiors, whether that be residential or commercial. I remain undecided!
After months of searching, I have found the perfect frames for my paintings on canvas board. I particularly like the texture and colour: ivory is so much softer than pure white, especially when painting landscapes. Don't get me wrong, I love white too, but I don't tend to use it directly, unless the piece is crying out for it.
Once the new website goes live, all of my smaller to medium works will be included — finally! Once updated I'll let you know, but until then I hope to see some of you either on the art trail or at one of the exhibitions.
Best wishes,
Deborah