I live locally in mid Wales and my work explores the natural world around me. I use it to explore healing, strength, freedom and escape.
In the past I’ve experienced domestic abuse and coercive control firsthand. I’ve also seen it happen in my family and amongst friends, and I know the effect it can have on confidence and growth. When I discovered print-making during my fine art degree, it gave me a sense of mastery. I scavenge for images, weave them together, and then start carving – wherever my hand takes me. Any mistakes at this stage I see as a lovely quirk of the medium. Mistakes are okay because the work becomes something else; they can create something special and unusual. This is the opposite of the control I experienced in my past relationships. Perhaps the fight or flight of the threat response becomes the flight of birds. When I’m in the zone, I don’t think about stresses. Imperfection goes unpunished, and I can focus on creating movement.
I use lino, Japanese vinyl, woodcutting, and water-based, eco friendly inks and handmade paper wherever I can. I love the impact of silhouettes, and the striking effect of black and white prints over mixed media backgrounds.
In the past I’ve experienced domestic abuse and coercive control firsthand. I’ve also seen it happen in my family and amongst friends, and I know the effect it can have on confidence and growth. When I discovered print-making during my fine art degree, it gave me a sense of mastery. I scavenge for images, weave them together, and then start carving – wherever my hand takes me. Any mistakes at this stage I see as a lovely quirk of the medium. Mistakes are okay because the work becomes something else; they can create something special and unusual. This is the opposite of the control I experienced in my past relationships. Perhaps the fight or flight of the threat response becomes the flight of birds. When I’m in the zone, I don’t think about stresses. Imperfection goes unpunished, and I can focus on creating movement.
I use lino, Japanese vinyl, woodcutting, and water-based, eco friendly inks and handmade paper wherever I can. I love the impact of silhouettes, and the striking effect of black and white prints over mixed media backgrounds.
Some examples of Sam's work
