Joint exhibition by Darren Rees, Jonathan Pomroy and Katie Warner
The SOC is delighted to be hosting this beautiful exhibition of watercolour paintings and willow sculptures. Enjoy the fluid nature of both mediums, with paintings by skilled artists Darren Rees and Jonathan Pomroy, shown alongside stunning basketry from willow weaver Katie Warner.
Darren Rees describes his love of watercolour painting as having “a freshness and immediacy that is perfect for working outside”. Indeed, his beautiful paintings are a celebration of his time out in the field, documenting a personal, emotional and visual response to his encounters with wildlife. Darren combines a variety of watercolour techniques including transparent washes, alongside areas where paint has been ‘sponged out’, and bolder brushwork added to describe colour, texture and tone. Having painted wildlife for nearly 40 years, it is no surprise that Darren’s work has received many awards and honours, most recently Wildlife Artist of the Year from the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation and BBC Wildlife Magazine.
Jonathan Pomroy also places great importance on spending time out in the field, observing the behaviour of birds as well as watching the weather and the effect it has on the landscape. He finds his time sketching outdoors to be the most enjoyable aspect of his work, bringing “great excitement and fascinating insights into the behaviour of many species”. Quick pocket-sized sketches are made using pencil, building up a visual library of ideas for compositions. Larger sketchbooks are used for more in-depth watercolour studies, capturing details of his subject matter including proportions, plumage, character and surroundings. Jonathan will often make written notes alongside his sketchbook paintings, and it is the combination of these visual and written studies that give Jonathan the information he needs to paint his final artwork.
Woven into the exhibition is the beautiful work of willow weaver Katie Warner. Katie combines her contemporary style with traditional skills to create unique and characterful baskets and sculptures. For this exhibition, a murmuration of willow Swallows swoop amongst the paintings, leading you through the gallery space. Katie enjoys using other natural materials in her work and often weaves in wind-fallen branches and driftwood from local woods and beaches, using them for basket handles.
More work by top wildlife artists can be found in our online art shop.
