Seasonal colour conversations - a journey through the Celtic calendar

In our household we exchange books on Christmas eve. Ever since hearing about this Icelandic tradition it’s fast becoming one of our favourite adopted family rituals. This Christmas I received the beautifully written and laid out ‘Slow Seasons’ by Rosie Steer. The book embraces the idea of enjoying nature in its seasonal goodness intertwined with craft, recipes and an understanding of the Celtic traditions through each season.

As I thumbed through the book an idea struck me for a new painting series, I felt I could create a series of paintings, a form of a diary to respond to the colours I experience of each Celtic season. Even in the greyest of January days, I am always struck on how much colour is present.

Colour journeys began for me over 10 years ago as I studied for my fine art degree, I would go off on ‘derives’ no desination in mind just me and a sketchbook, absorbing all the colours and shapes of the cornish countryside and coastline. I would bring this back to the studio and work within the colour palette and memory. I saw it as a way of mapping my experience.

Now in 2024 I am revisiting these journeys but with more of an intention of seeing the colours throughout the year. Looking for the combinations that jump out at me. A visual diary of my dog walks, pram strolls and general wanderings. When I reach Christmas I hope to have a visual journey of the year, one to reflect on and muse over the memories that each colour conversation held.