Nina Patterson

My favourite piece in this body of work is, ''Moored, Roundstone Harbour''. I was lucky enough to see this boat moored one idyllic evening in Roundstone. It was a calm evening when all seemed hushed, even the seagulls. I hoped to catch the striking tranquillity of the scene and hope you enjoy looking at this piece as much as I enjoyed the peacefulness of the moment and executing the piece itself."

BACKGROUND

Nina was born in Dublin and comes from an enterprising family. Painting from an early age, Nina studied under contemporary artists and craft workers but is largely a self taught artist.

Nina has been painting professionally full time for seven years, exhibiting for the first time in the Solomon Gallery's Christmas exhibition 1989, where her work was received very well. Since then, Nina has been building a reputation exhibiting in galleries throughout the country, building a reputation.

In 1998 Nina set up her own studio, "Artworks Studio", Celbridge, Co. Kildare where she now teaches and works from.

"Capturing light on a subject is the challenge for me. Any ordinary subject can be transformed into something extraordinary by incorporating the artists own vision and techniques. My choice of subject matter is quite broad as the inspiration for my work is not so much a specific object or scene as the play on light, creating atmosphere and textures with contrasting soft muted tones. Themes have included still life, interiors, figures and varied landscapes.

Until recently the majority of my work was in watercolour. I found the clarity and crispness of the pigments breathtaking. Transparent colours allow the light of the paper to be incorporated into the tonal atmosphere. This delicate medium does not allow any scrubbing or rubbing there are no second chances. I medium does not allow any scrubbing or rubbing there are no second chances. I find it necessary to map out the steps through which I intend to shape the painting, initially laying fresh bold washes, gradually working in the details.

Tough I still thoroughly enjoy working in watercolours I felt a need for change, diversifying into a totally contrasting medium - oils. Giving freedom to the artist, oils permit the development of ideas, changing and restructuring as the painting progress. I find that the magic and inspiration of oil painting uncovers and transforms subjects that are rarely ever envisaged from the offset.

Watching other artists' work is a real treat for me, I always love to see how varied the use of medium can be. The path of learning is a never ending inspirational route which I hope to seek out more enjoyable hours of painting."