How it all started
Hi I’m Helena, an abstract artist based in Newry, Northern Ireland. I’ve been painting and drawing for as long as I can remember. Growing up in the Yorkshire moorlands of England, I was always attracted to the wilderness and raw beauty of the landscapes.
Since moving to Ireland, as a contemporary abstract artist living in County Down, I have endless opportunities for connecting with nature. My home town is a place where the lush Mourne Mountains sprawl into the stormy Irish sea.
My story
Although passionate about art growing up, I chose the ‘sensible’ job route. I worked in the corporate IT industry for several years. However, the need to find creative fulfilment reignited the desire to experiment artistically. I started to take evening art classes to fill the creative void and hone my technical skills. This led to commission pieces for friends and family, and in 2020 I opened an Etsy shop selling hand painted cards. As my style evolved, I loved the freeness of expression found in abstract art. Now, my paintings are predominately abstract, large scale and full of bold colour and texture.
My approach
My work is driven by raw emotion felt through experiencing the breath-taking bleakness of the natural world. A deep and meaningful connection with its bold landscapes drive the need to capture these feelings with a bold and vibrant art practice.
Inspired by bright colour, my paintings are an interpretive journey of our surroundings. My paintings are not perfect representations of what I see. Rather, I want to set the tone of the landscape, the bold texture and colour to lead you to your own conclusion. To encourage deep and personal contemplation. The wildness and the energy and chaos of the rocky coastline and the stark moorlands are a constant source of inspiration.
The aim of my abstract paintings is to capture the shifting nature of the environment and the constantly changing seasons. To evoke the calmness, powerfully juxtaposed with energy and chaos. My bold use of colour and rich texture create a pronounced mood and distinct atmosphere, whilst respectfully leaving enough creative space for your own imagination.
When I am not painting, you can find me hiking my local Mourne mountain range, sea swimming, and binge watching whatever drama series I’m currently addicted to.
Please reach out and say hi at helenatarnart@gmail.com or fill in the contact form.
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