I have always been influenced by the work of the great Old Masters, but while spending some time in the National Gallery, I kept returning to the early Italian artists: Piero della Francesca, Uccello and Giotto. What seemed at first glance quite simplistic, was actually very complex and beautifully drawn: I found it very inspiring.

Using both the landscape and the figure; as well as the influence of these artists, I found a starting point for this body of work. My preoccupation became the use of pictorial space, loose brushwork against areas of detail and the ornate quality of the finished piece.

Once again, I have enjoyed working on the juxtaposition of traditional figures placed in surreal landscapes. The overall effect, I hope, leaves the viewer finding their own narrative.

GILES RENCONTRE