Janet Shrimpton
My paintings take their inspiration from observations of the everyday and working from a photograph or drawing, develop into a semi-abstract image triggered by my imagination and a spontaneous play of mark-making with an emphasis on the textural qualities. The paint effects, markings and patterns in the gesso and scraping back layers to reveal different colours are all part of the process and guide the work as I don’t always have a clear idea of the outcome. I experiment using various mediums, including acrylic, varnish, oil and graphite on to gesso panels which lends itself to an interesting surface. I try to create something of the quality of ancient frescos and distressed walls which have a nostalgic and timeless effect.