Artwork for Kate McLean
Artichokes in allotments
Knucklas Allotments
King Arthur Charger
Artichoke
Angie's Angelica
Winter cabage
Knucklas Viaduct Jug
Fieldfare
Details
Much of my work has been inspired by my involvement in Knucklas Castle Community Land Project where a 21 acre site including the castle summit has been acquired to be run by and for the community. From an Arthurian legend about the ancient castle, to the allotments, the woodlands and the surrounding countryside it is particularly beautiful and interesting. It forms much of the subject matter of my work. I paint - largely in acrylic - needle felt small birds and animals - made with wool from the many local sheep - and decorate pottery, thrown and fired by Tony Hall of Castle Hill Pottery, Knucklas.
In the 1960's I did an art foundation course where I learnt about Op-Art, piles of bricks and Andy Warhol and there was plenty of discussion about the meaning of art. I wondered about how I could make my art mean something. I couldn't answer that question then, and I'm still wondering. But I've come to accept that for me it is the pleasure of seeing, the pleasure of thinking and the challenge of combining these to create something new. If my work gives pleasure to others, however small that pleasure may be, that's great, and if, through this, I can raise funds for projects I support and believe in, that's wonderful and I'll happily settle for that.
" The land's a common treasury for everyone to share" -Leon Rosselson - the Song of the Diggers. In this spirit proceeds from sales of this exhibition go towards Knucklas Castle Community Land Project.
I have run occasional needle felt classes. Visitors to the Pop Up Art cafe may get the chance to try out needle felting for themselves when it's not too busy.
