I have always liked the myths and folk tales of islands that are really turtles or whales, so huge that nobody living on them ever realises. Many pagan religions had a personification of the earth, such as Gaia, and I particularly enjoy the idea that Gaia might be a turtle sometimes. I also enjoy, particularly in Greek mythology, that gods, particularly the old titans, don’t really do a whole lot. This duology is inspired by all those beings of power and nature that spent their eternities lazing around.

The composition of this painting is entirely incongruous; its elements are linked by their resilience to bad weather and their general ancient-ness. The marine iguana is from the Galapagos islands, the slate is inspired by a chunk of coastline in Wales, and the trees are inspired by the forests of the Scottish Highlands.

Acrylic on wood

120cm x 90cm

2021 - 2023

Original artwork and limited edition prints available.