Making A Mark - my first solo exhibition of recent work at Proteus Creation Space in Basingstoke, Hampshire. I decided to have an exhibition of my work at a local space for a number of reasons. One of them being to keep motivated since I finished my MA and went back to full time work. But also to develop my practice, experiment with painting and see my work outside the studio.

Cornish Blossom, oil paint and charcoal on linen, 30cm x 30cm

I made eight paintings for the exhibition, four landscapes inspired by Australia and with influences from David Hockney and the Impressionists and four 'floral impressions' inspired by the artist Cy Twombly.

Blue Landscape I, oil paint and charcoal on linen, 20cm x 40cm

Green Landscape II, oil paint and charcoal on linen, 20cm x 40cm

Alongside my paintings were a series of drawings. Two 'panoramic' landscapes and a series of six small drawings inspired by my WSA Window View drawings which I also displayed. The piece that I'd spent the majority of my time on before the exhibition was my biggest pen on paper drawing to date of a forest scene.

Waterfall Way, pen on paper, 76cm x 57cm

The biggest challenge of the exhibition came from marketing and making sure that the exhibition was seen. I found that it was a struggle to find time to advertise the exhibition especially as I was still making work right up until the night before I hung the exhibition.

Polperro Bluebells, oil paint and charcoal on linen, 30cm x 30cm

Overall the experience of making new work for an exhibition was challenging yet rewarding. It tested my patience, dedication and time management skills but I'm proud of the work that I managed to produce.