While I was developing this series for much of 2019-2020, I felt as though something was missing. I kept piecing together ideas and things I had learnt from all my experimentation across several mediums and several months. I wondered why I had been drawn so much to gold. Why so much to movement. Yes I am constantly inspired by nature and the powerful force it is, but I realised this series was more than that.

Finally one day it clicked and I placed the final pieces together on the first piece of the series and I knew this was exactly how it was meant to be.

Pictured: Fragments #1 of the collection

I now know the inspiration from this series came from within, truly born from my lived experiences. The series has allowed me to explore who I am, the art of self-love and self-expression. Each piece is intuitive, unlike any other I create. Each mark, brush stroke, every inch of canvas is a feeling captured in that moment. A feeling released. And my mind set free to be myself.

Over the past several years I've come to realise that the gold than runs through much of my works, in this collection and my signature alcohol ink works, represents hope and light shining through. A little thread of gold beaming out hope and light to me. A little sparkle to remind us there is always beauty and hope out there for us all if we take the time to look. It is hope for a better world. A glimmer of hope for someone who may be struggling. Hope for my future. A beacon of light I know will always be there.

If looking at my paintings can make me feel safe and hopeful, then that's good enough for me. I only hope that my art stirs something in you too.

Thanks for being here and sending you all big love,

Fern xxx