Cornish Artist Inspired by the Coastline
I'm a Cornish artist and photographer based in Cornwall, creating original paintings, collages and fine art prints inspired by the Cornish coastline. My work captures the beaches, surf, cliffs and changing light that make Cornwall one of Britain's most celebrated landscapes.
Most of my ideas begin outdoors. You'll usually find me walking (or running) on the coast path, painting on a cliff top, or swimming in the surf with a camera in hand. I'm always looking for those fleeting moments of light, colour and energy that make Cornwall such a special place to me. I've put many hours into exploring the coastline and have developed a deep connection and knowledge of it.
My aim isn't simply to record a location. I want my work to capture the feeling of being there: the energy I feel when swimming the surf; the warmth of evening sunlight on the cliffs; or the sense of peace that comes from spending time in nature.
The sea has shaped much of my life, so it's no surprise that it appears throughout my work.
Paintings in Oil
The majority of my oil paintings are created outdoors, directly in front of the landscape that inspires them. Working this way allows me to respond to changing light, weather and atmosphere. For me, what makes painting outside so special is that the resulting works represent the experience of being there, not just a snapshot in time but a collection of observations recorded over a couple hours.
Collage
My collage work takes a different approach. Using paper which I prepare with splatters, texture and multiple passes of paint, I build layered compositions inspired by the shape of waves, Cornish beaches and the natural patterns I see around me whilst surfing and taking photos. I work in a uniquely modern style using smooth curves and crisp lines. A contrast to my looser oil paintings.
Photography
My passion for photographing waves stems from a lifelong obsession with surfing and bodyboarding. In my photos I look to capture the flow of shapes and colours that waves create. I swim throughout the year in all conditions with a pair of flippers on and my camera in a waterproof case. Waking up early in the hope of capturing pristine waves at sunrise, even in the depths of winter.
Whether I'm painting, photographing or creating collages, I'm always trying to communicate the same thing: the beauty, the moods, and the character of my beloved Cornwall's coastline.
From Sea to Studio
Many of my artworks begin long before I enter the studio.
Throughout the year I spend countless hours exploring Cornwall's beaches and coastline. I photograph waves from the water, sketch outdoors and gather visual ideas during coastal walks and surf sessions.
Back in the studio these experiences become paintings, collages and prints that allow people to bring a piece of Cornwall into their homes.
Collected Across Cornwall and Beyond
My work hangs in the homes (locally and internationally) of surfers, swimmers, walkers and people who simply love Cornwall's coastline.
Laurie's work captures perfectly the essence of places we love in Cornwall. And so having such wonderful artwork at home to remind us of our happy places, certainly helps when we're many months away from visiting again. But we will, always. Thank you, Laurie." Chris, East Sussex.
Fantastic service and brilliant prints and paintings. About as good as an experience could be when buying artwork online. Highly recommended." Graham, Bedfordshire.
Delivery was so quick and the print and mount were just lovely. We have ordered a few times before and have always been delighted with what we received." Linda, Cornwall.
Press
- 6 page feature and interview in Carve Magazine