Swirling drips and marks sweeping across the work allude to the fourth day of Creation. Irrespective of ones spiritual beliefs, one can but wonder at the magnificence of Nature. However we consider Creation, no words can approximate the force and power that made it happen. It is truly awesome. 

I have always been fascinated by the almost pre historic allure of trees post pruning. Branches contort and assume sculptural gravitas that speak of wisdom and history as they prepare for winter. I never tire of the way glorious ganglionic tips conclude and contain tree stems like an old Shaman’s gnarled hands.

Heroically, a single tree, flanked by the rectilinear series of houses is important at centre stage. Small distant trees do not devalue that central motif.  In this urban space, one tree holds more symbolic potential than a thicket. Brooding skies amplify that drama with sound and colour.

During lockdown, I have imagined many narratives this summer, and it’s been wonderful celebrating this old friend’s return to youthful vigour. Until Autumn.

The last of the Hitchcock series, this painting focuses on the tree which has been in the background of the companion works. Being relatively small formats, my hope is that the viewer will come close to the image, creating an intimate capsule where surface colour and brushwork are enjoyed as they blur into abstraction.  Lone trees take on greater importance for me when isolated, allowing narratives to come to life.

Abstracted car forms in the foreground are still in a windy landscape. One imagines a driver sitting inside with a sense of anticipation, echoed by the viewers anxiety waiting for danger.

Two cars seen through a car window on a stormy night set the tone for danger. Acid yellow rectangle of car bonnet is electrifying and the contrast to the remaining elements in reduced palette sets a sense of theatre.