At the moment I create landscape collages using my discarded paintings, prints drawings and batiks
I used to be a secondary School Art teacher, but after 16 years I left to open an Art Gallery in Doncaster. The gallery ran exhibitions and classes in life drawing, textiles, and painting. It was successful, but when the lease ran out I decided to continue my classes at home. I am still holding morning classes, but I have more time to produce my own art work now. I am never really satisfied with the work I produce, and I am constantly striving to improve. I recently appeared on Landscape Artist of the year where I was shortlisted for my collage of the lake and music temple at West Wycombe Park.
My landscapes are mostly created in the same way each time.
I always begin by taking photos in places which inspire me. I take a lot of photos, then at home I select one with the best composition.
I initially work on several large pieces of paper, creating expressive marks and colours using a variety of media and techniques, as a response to the photo. I also produce collagraphs and batiks in response. I like to decide on a colour scheme at the beginning which will convey a mood or atmosphere.
I draw out the main outline of the composition, and select suitable areas from all the preliminary papers I’ve created. I cut or tear the pieces and glue them down, adding shading or highlights to create depth.
My particular interest is rocks and water. Having studied geology a few years ago, I find that I am still drawn to rocks and boulders. Their colours, textures, smell and feel excite me, but also their composition, and the fact that they are often millions of years old.
I am constantly seeking new inspiration and I am hoping to expand on the range of techniques that I use in the future.
Rosemary Firth
