Journal
Studio thoughts and feelings..
Modern Abstract Art: Why You Don’t Have to “Get It” to Love It
What is modern abstract art?
Abstract art first appeared in the early 20th century, with artists like Kandinsky and Mondrian paving the way. But contemporary abstract art has evolved far beyond those early days.
Today’s abstract artists experiment with:
Unusual materials like recycled paper, digital tools, or found objects.
Innovative abstract painting techniques such as pouring, layering, or collage.
Personal and social themes—modern abstract paintings often tell stories about identity, culture, or community.
In other words, modern abstract painting styles aren’t just about shapes and colours—they’re about expression.
new studio
I have moved into a new studio! I never thought I would say that.
This decision has been such a tough one for me to make, i’ve been going back and forth on this for months and months, well actually its been nearly a year since i had to start thinking about leaving my old studio. Unfortunately my previous studio put everyone’s rent up by 50 - 100% increases last September. After a lot of coming together to try and make it work with the studios they still would not move on the increases which this led to a lot of artists leaving the studios. Which meant the lovely community we all had all but vanished in the coming months.
5 tips when choosing your colour palette for your artwork
DO YOU STRUGGLE WITH CHOOSING COLOURS FOR YOUR WORK? OR JUST WANT TO HAVE A NOSE AT HOW I PICK MY COLOURS, THIS IS THE RIGHT PLACE.
COLOUR CAN BE OVERWHELMING, AND BELIEVE ME I HAVE BEEN THERE.
THERE ARE SO MANY RULES, TONES, HUES, TINTS, SHADES.. I COULD GO ON BUT I WON’T. WHAT I WILL SAY IS FOR SCRAP THE RULES, THE WORRY AND THE FEAR AND GET MIXING INSTEAD.
5 books every artist should read
My top 5 favourite creative books to read that I think every artist should read. Big magic is all about imagination and where ideas come from. The creative habit is all about finding your routine and sticking to it to make the work. The artist way is a spiritual journey with helpful tools to make your work better. Art Inc is an all knowing reference book filled with inspirational pages.
dec studio snippets
I have been working on some larger canvases, 100 x 100 cm which I have been really enjoying. Working big is really freeing and it feels open ended, optimistic and like anything is possible. My latest inspiration has been from flowers and wild gardens. I am feeling a spring romance collection coming..
Contemporary Landing Exhibition
I am so excited to share that I will be showing a selection of works at this years Contemporary Landing Exhibition at Snape Maltings in Suffolk. This is a dream come true and I cannot wait to see everything hung together. This show includes a handful of talented artists, ranging from ceramists, painters and sculptors.
still life in the studio
I have always been drawn to still life works. It is how I started painting and drawing, it was my main focus at college and I have felt for a while the draw to get back to it. So after many years of thinking and pondering if it is a good idea or whether it would be a distraction.. I went for it! It was so refreshing to create in a new way, a different way and to create just for myself.
studio snippets
I have been painting like crazy in my new studio. I have three shows booked in this year alongside a handful of commissions that all seem to have come at once. However I have really pushed myself, my work and I am starting to see the results now in the pieces I am working on.
New art studio
Bigger space & more storage, working bigger, client visits and open studios! I am beyond thrilled and thankful I have found this space to work in and I cannot wait to see what happens next!
HOW TO PHOTOGRAPH YOUR ARTWORK
a few tips & tricks to help guide you from instagram shots to product photographs for your website. Disclaimer, although I took photography at college I am not a professional, I am only talking through my experience!
FREEBIE BRANDING WORKBOOK FOR CREATIVES
As an artist branding is a vital part of running your business and reaching your ideal customers. Let me help you organise your thoughts, ideas & inspiration to create a cohesive brand that feels like you.
DIY ARTIST WALL EASEL
I get a lot of questions about my wall easel so here is the low down on how to make one yourself. Firstly I will explain why I have a wall easel. My studio is tiny, it does well for what it’s purpose is for but I could not fit in a free standing easel without losing valuable floor space.
abstract sketchbook play
Do you ever get stuck with how to use your sketchbook? Or maybe you just feel out of practise? Well here are some prompts and ideas to get your creative juice flowing again.
GROUP EXHBITION AT THE POND GALLERY, SNAPE MALTINGS
A photo round up of our group show ‘And breathe…’ at the Pond Gallery, Snape Maltings
Art on location, packing supplies and more
I have taken a handful of trips this year to stunning places and I just had to take my art supplies with me. However deciding what to take can be daunting and confusing. I thought I would offer some tips and tricks that may help you take your art supplies away with you.
a guide on framing artwork
So you have finally found that piece of artwork that makes your heart sing - yay! Now you have to find the perfect frame, but there are so many choices it can be overwhelming!
what MY COLLECTORS are saying..
“My beautiful painting “By the frozen lake” arrived today. It’s truly beautiful Emma, I love it. Thank you so much!
— LILY GLOVER
“My daughter opened her present early - she couldn’t wait. It was a huge hit, her text today: THIS IS GORGEOUS!”