We had a wild quince tree growing in our garden. After 30 years it began to collapse. This fallen branch looked quite ordinary at first. Then the bark began to bubble up in surprising ways. Then strange fungus flowers began to appear.
The branch was transformed into something rich and strange. It now looked like a sea-creature covered with molasses and sea anemones. It was a startling example of transformative power.
oil on board 78 x 60 cm
This painting began with a surprising experience. I came across this log surging out of the undergrowth like a dolphin out of the sea. It carried on its back this striking fungus growth.
It looked like a crown. It also looked like a crown. It also looked like a dance, a dance in celebration of natural forms and processes.
The dancing crown appears in the leaves of autumn and at the end of summer.
oil on board 60 x 52 cm
I was fascinated by the way this fallen log suggested latent energy and power. In the back of my mind might have been a piece of fallen Greek sculpture. The thrust of energy running from left to right culminates in the radiant fungus flower. It is a dramatic realisation. That moment is reinforced by shiny white lilies. We are aware, though, that this is a transient glory. One of the lilies is already beginning to fade.
oil on board 84 x 60 cm
oil on board 60 x 50 cm
2022
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