Deirdre Porter-Hanson (M)

Painting, for me, is wonderfully liberating, allowing expression of experience, thought, and understanding. It enables a wordless dialogue between the deepest part of inner self and the immense wonder that is our world. It is, I believe, spiritual in its nature, rooted firmly and fully in the physical world, but allowing encounters too often fleetingly ignored in the day-to-day business of life to be savoured, explored and enjoyed; the exquisite colours and textures in a piece of granite, the sublime awesomeness of a wind swept beach, the unexpected beauty of a dull November morning, the mysteries of clouds and moon, the delicacies of light on human skin.

I am interested in the responses humanity has made to our world. How we have tried to understand and then to incorporate that understanding into our conscience, our ways of being and belief. I am fascinated by maps and satellite images, by traditions of ownership, stewardship and belonging. I am intrigued by the interconnectedness of humanity and the environment; the political, spiritual and emotional responses we make to what we encounter.

I studied Fine Art at Newcastle and Reading universities, specialising in oil painting inspired by the landscapes I knew: rural Ireland, and urban and rural England. The most challenging advice I received whilst studying has stayed with me and underpinned much of the thinking behind my paintings: namely, that as an artist you are the creator of the landscape of your painting. There are endless possibilities in exploring this idea

During the 1990s, I lived and worked in different parts of Africa, and in recent years have travelled in Asia and Australia: fantastic experiences which have enriched both my work and understanding of this beautiful planet. Now I just enjoy where I am: the English seasons and the changing colours of the garden, the endless wonder of the sky, the understated beauty of the Bedfordshire countryside, and my children’s observations of the ways of the world.

If you wish to buy one of my paintings, or commission one, please use the contact page to call or email me.