Joint exhibition by Matt Sewell, Tom Frost, Jane Smith and Helen Foot
This spring, the SOC presents a vibrant exhibition of prints, paintings, textiles and wooden sculpture, all of which have drawn inspiration from birds. Bringing together artists whose work is shaped by close observation of the natural world, the show features work from Matt Sewell, Tom Frost, Jane Smith, and weaver Helen Foot. Once the exhibition opens, it will also be available to view online.
Matt Sewell is an avid ornithologist, illustrator, mural artist and bestselling author of books including Our Garden Birds and Our Woodland Birds. Matt takes his inspiration directly from the field and the SOC is delighted to be showing such a joyful collection of his much-loved bird illustrations and original watercolour paintings.
Illustrator and maker, Tom Frost, presents an engaging mix of original screen prints and hand-crafted 3D wooden birds. His work has a spirit of playful humour, and he is quick to note that “no birds were harmed in the making” of his wooden taxidermy models, which are a contemporary reinterpretation of the Victorian natural history collections we are all familiar with. Tom’s work draws on a deep appreciation of the natural world, and his hand screen-printed “school chart” posters, including Garden Birds, Moths and Shoreline, have become sought-after collector’s pieces.
Jane Smith, artist and best-selling author of Wild Island and Community, creates her work through close engagement with the natural world. Beginning outdoors, she sketches from life, capturing fleeting yet intimate encounters with wildlife and their habitats. Her ability to patiently observe for hours at a time is a skill honed during her career as a wildlife filmmaker. Once back in the studio, Jane translates her observations and sketches into vibrant screenprints, using printmaking rather than film to bring her work to life. Jane is a member of the Society of Wildlife Artists.
Helen Foot is a contemporary British textile artist and weaver who enjoys blending traditional handcrafts with modern design to create, beautiful, timeless and useful pieces. She brings to the SOC her latest collection of woven scarves and pouches inspired by the colours and plumage of birds, including the Kingfisher, Cormorant and Starling. Helen has an MA from the Royal College of Art and has designed woven textiles for fashion houses including Alexander McQueen & Paul Smith. Helen is a member of the Gloucestershire Guild of Craftsmen.
Image: Thistle Goldfinches by Jane Smith
