Silver Birch 2009

In the Silver Birch painting I wanted the painting to draw the viewer’s eye to the contrast created between sunlight and shadow. This connection can unlock limitless compositions, bringing even the most simplistic scenes to life. Shapes echo themselves in the languid movement of the stream and the small gentle clouds; this is in stark contrast with the strong vertical lines imposed by the trees.

As with all Uberpaintings, I find myself addressing subjects that have always been a favourite of mine, that are intrinsically linked to the nature of watercolour painting. This is after all a main stay in the development and construction of any Uberpainting. The Birch tree has become almost a symbol of the medium to me it is an important motif in relation to Uberpainting.

I have been drawn to birch trees because they are predominantly white. White is the mirror that I reflect my entire tone and palette from. White is the start and end to every true watercolour painting, it should be remembered that a pure and skilful watercolourist does not use white paint.

I remember when young seeing a stand of birch trees in spring with a low cold sun shining on their bark after a rain storm; they contrasted magnificently with the passing of the dark clouds in the background. This was crucial in compounding my development as a watercolourist. To me only watercolour painting can truly capture the fleeting nature of such a scene. Watercolour lends its self to a snapshot of a moment in the same way an oil painting can reflect the stillness of a figure or a bowl of fruit.