This collection of work has been created by recent Master’s

of Fine Art graduates Alison and Jo, and is inspired by the

term Biophilia - ‘an innate affinity of human beings with the

natural world’.

Both artists explore three threads through their work which

is comprised of drawings/prints/textile pieces/collages;

A direct physical link to nature

A reminder of natural things

A connection to natural rhythms and outside spaces

Alison’s work is always inspired by her daily morning walks,

whether she is in the rural countryside or more urban

natural spaces. Working as a full time artist has been the

fulfilment of a lifetime's ambition following a successful

career as a secondary school teacher. Now working locally,

Alison’s work reflects the ordinary in nature, capturing

everyday beauty. Photographs taken in situ are developed

in the studio, where Alison has created monoprints for this

exhibition mainly in fabric. Working with fabric has been

inspired by the creations of Louise Bourgeois and Anni

Albers, who have raised the status of working with textiles

from the description of ‘work for women’.

Jo uses drawing, painting and text to explore a personal

connection to natural places. The intricate surface detail

found in organic objects, such as scraps of bark, collected

on walks in local woodlands and parks, is often the starting

point for her work. Sketchbook studies done in situ are also

an important part of her working practice. Drawings and

notes from these books are developed back in the studio.

Jo uses a variety of techniques and materials, including

pencil, ink, wax, pastel, collage, thread and digital print on

paper and wood panel.