PAINTINGS BY AMANDA BARRETT

The practice of Amanda’s art is inspired by the following 3 topics:
Painting from observation – Plein Air for landscapes and direct observation of a model for portraits.
Exploration of technique focusing on rhythm – rhythm is achieved through mark making – the use of free flowing brush strokes, change of direction, length of stroke and speed of application in order to sculpt an image with paint.
Colour – experimenting with the effects of transparency and under painting in different colours. Building up an image using layers, using Acrylic paints only or by using a combination of acrylic under painting and oils on top.
Exhibitions: See panels – 2019 Painting Exhibitions and Events and 2020 Painting Exhibitions and Events.
Art Training: British Institute Florence: Certificate in Renaissance Art, Brighton Art College: Foundation Painting, Chelsea School of Art BA Graphic Design. My art practice: I am from the era when art colleges actively encouraged abstract interpretation and experimentation over figurative art (meaning anything representational was out and not encouraged). I actually gave up “fine art” due to my art college experience moving to Graphic Design for the next 30 years. It is only now 2018 onwards that I return to my original skill. Huge thanks to the following: Trevor Osborne who kick-started me back into painting through his inspirational teaching, James Colman founder of Paint Out whose vision has inspired many to leave their studios and come outside and just paint!, Michael Carlo RA who showed me the art of not being precious through wood cutting and print making. And my father John Barrett who from the most disadvantaged start fought through the depression to achieve his ambition, he taught me to learn from setbacks, be true to your instincts and be up for the challenge whatever the outcome!