Welcome to my first solo exhibition 'Breaking Through'!
'Breaking through' resonates with me in two distinct ways;
My paintings always depict an area of light often in contrast to a darker area within the composition (or painting), for me this emergence of light through darkness reflects breaking through battles, struggles and negativity into a positive energy of hope, serenity and love.
'Breaking through' also reflects my journey as an artist.
I have painted all of my life but until 5 years ago I always preferred to paint realistically. I did this because I believed that painting in this way was the hallmark of an accomplished artist.
Diving into expressionism was a massive step out of my comfort zone but for the first time, instead of using a photograph for inspiration, I was now using my intuition, my emotions and my memories.
I started to paint with freedom and joy, I broke all the rules and allowed my intuition to be my guide.
When my new expressionist work was well received and being collected around the world, I knew I had broken through that personal barrier I had created for myself.
I followed my gut and found my creative and happy place!
I'm so proud of this collection. Every mark made, and paint stroke applied is a little piece of me.
Ciara Gilmore 2023