The Artist Diaries with Cindy Revell

Oil Master

Vibrant flowers and spirited animals and birds have been showing up in my illustration and fine art for many years. The inspiration can come from anywhere. It can be found in the pistachio colour of an aspen trunk in the rain, a spotted horse in the pasture, the golden colour of light during a walk to the chicken house or the inquisitive birds which are a common element in a vivid mix of florals, patterns and animals.

The seed for a painting can start as tiny thumbnail drawings in sketchbooks, notebooks and bits of paper that litter the studio. Sometimes the ideas come in an instant and sometimes they simmer for a long while.

Thick and lively brushstrokes are reminiscent of the swirling scratchboard marks from my early years of illustration. They have a flow that tends to wrap themselves around the objects creating energy and movement. Pure and vibrant colours give the paintings an optimistic and life-affirming quality.

It all comes to life in gardens, interiors and still lifes where they fuse in an exuberant and joyful mix that playfully hints of the great connection between all life, reminding us that there is still wonder in this world and reason for hope.

Learn more about Cindy