Sonja Benskin Mesher
Born in Bournemouth, England
Lives and works in Wales.
I have worked full time as a visual artist since 1999, and
have spent those years exploring ways to communicate thoughts
and concerns with my paintings and drawings
Its not all you see on the surface, it goes deeper than that.
The work goes back many years, what I have seen, experienced,
touched and collected.
My present surroundings, here in Wales, and that of Cornwall
where I spend much of my time, inform the work, and inspire
the subject matter.
Then with the painting and drawing I remember, and try to
make sense of it all
Many Times, We Try
Moving On
There is a sensual rhythmic quality to
the work that suits me just fine...."
My studio is in a medieval longhouse in Llanelltyd,
North Wales surrounded by mountains, lakes and rivers, and
also very near to the sea. I moved here in 1993 to change
the quality and direction of my life.
This ancient place affects work profoundly, with its space,
peace and sense of freedom.
It was here that the work started, and I have worked full
time as a visual artist since 1999, after an initial period
of study of Art & Design.
My work is now abstract. I use a dialogue of shape and colour
to create ideas about the landscape and inherent memory.
Sudden Storm
Hollow Hill
I obsessively paint an image or shape again,
and again for the exploration into the process of the work.
The result is always different.
I use a layering technique to produce depth of image, surface
interest, and a feeling of emanating light. Using acrylic
mediums as a base, I incorporate found media, such as wool
from the fences, rust, earth etc to create texture and a sense
of place.
Memory and music plays an important part in moving the process
into an intuitive area, where striving ends, and the work
naturally flows.
Sea Stones
Many Times, We Try
Sudden Storm
Ley Line
Moon Blue Square