by Kathryn McFarlane
I’m a Scottish abstract artist who uses colour as a means of self-expression.
I am continually exploring new ways to express myself through paint application, texture, and colour layering. I predominantly work with mixed media, giving me the freedom to experiment with various techniques and materials, emphasising colour, shapes, layers, and textural effects within my work.
I’m drawn to the medium of collage due to its ability to convey complex ideas and emotions through the combination of seemingly disparate elements. I find that the process of selecting and arranging different materials helps me to explore the tension between harmony and disharmony. While I am always striving to create a cohesive and balanced composition, I also enjoy experimenting with ways to disrupt that balance in order to create a sense of visual tension.
I find inspiration in the twists and turns of life’s journey and through my work I explore the complexities of memory, nostalgia, and the interconnectivity of our daily lives. I am intrigued by how our past experiences and memories shape us into the individuals we are today. While each person’s history is unique, shared experiences such as travel and the significance of colour create a sense of belonging and shared identity.
I weave these themes intricately into my multi-layered pieces, allowing me to express myself in a way that feels personal and authentic.
by Fenneke Wolters-Sinke
I specialise in contemporary artists’ books and paper sculptures. By using and combining various techniques such as printmaking, papercutting, paperfolding and bookbinding I hope to inspire others to appreciate the alchemy of materials and the stories they tell, fostering a greater understanding of the significance of handcrafted art in our increasingly digital age.
As a keen sea kayaker and mountaineer, I get my inspiration from the textures, patterns, colours, tones and shapes in the great outdoors. My interest in architecture, design and construction also influence the way I approach a certain project.
Each piece I create begins with a concept, which is sometimes triggered by a prompt or a brief, and an exploration of technique—whether it’s the rhythmic act of mixing up and rolling ink, the meticulous folding of paper or glueing and/or stitching of a book. Sketching the imagined final piece, taking precise measurements, selecting and playing with (leftover) materials, making protoypes, allowing yourself to make mistakes and learning from them and finally finetuning various ideas into something that’s pleasing and workable are all important steps in the whole process. This multi-focus allows me to appreciate the physicality of my materials, encouraging a hands-on approach that honours the labour intrinsic to these art forms. Every final piece of work serves as a vessel for my initial ideas, memories and experiences.
My works have been shown in national and international exhibitions including Bankside Gallery, the Royal Scottish Academy, libraries and galleries in the USA. In 2018 I was selected for the VACMA award to go on a two-week non-toxic printmaking residency in Massachusetts. One of my artists’ book collections was shortlisted for the Scottish Landscape Awards in 2023 and exhibited at City Art Centre in Edinburgh. I have won several awards at national and international bookbinding competitions and a few of my books are held in public collections.
Website: fenfolio.com
Instagram: @fenfolio
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