10th Jun 2024

Raw Beauty: The Materiality of Nature in Sculpture and Paint


In this curated selection of artworks from the EARTH_NATURE collection, a profound and resonant dialogue with the natural world is articulated through both materiality and thematic exploration. Each artist in this collection brings a unique perspective, yet their works collectively resonate with an intuitive and organic approach that mirrors the essence of nature itself.

Sophie Perkins‘ work exemplifies this organic interplay between medium and nature. Her use of natural pigments and the soak-stain technique allows the paint to dictate its own path across the canvas, creating luminous colour fields that evoke the fluidity and unpredictability of natural landscapes. Perkins’ paintings are not mere representations but rather embodiments of nature’s essence, capturing the ephemeral beauty of the coastal landscapes she so often draws inspiration from. The fluidity of her medium mirrors the ebb and flow of the tides, creating a dynamic and ever-changing visual experience.

Similarly, Nathan Henton‘s sculptures engage with the raw and unrefined aspects of the natural world. Utilising wood, Henton’s works emphasise texture and form, celebrating the inherent qualities of the natural elements he employs. His sculptures explore the interplay between shape, form, and void, creating a dialogue between the material and the space it inhabits. Henton’s approach is deeply rooted in the physicality of his materials, allowing the natural textures and forms to guide the creation process. This results in works that are both grounded in their materiality and evocative of the broader natural landscape.

The human-nature connection is poignantly explored in Toni Cogdell‘s paintings, where figures often appear in a state of symbiosis with their surroundings. This harmonious coexistence suggests that the boundaries between the human and the natural are fluid and permeable. Cogdell’s use of colour and texture creates a sense of motion and light, capturing moments of introspection and connection. Her works delve into themes of the human condition, solitude, and the spiritual connection to nature, creating a contemplative and immersive experience for the viewer. The figures in her paintings seem to crystallise amidst the motion of colour and texture, embodying the transient and interconnected nature of existence.

Sophie Baker‘s contemplative approach to realism further enriches the collection. Her paintings frequently depict serene landscapes and natural scenes, inviting viewers to engage in a meditative experience. Baker’s use of colour and composition creates a sense of depth and tranquillity, drawing the viewer into a reflective state. Her works challenge viewers to consider their relationship with the natural world, prompting a thoughtful and introspective engagement with the environment.This collection, “Earth & Nature,” invites viewers to explore the intricate and profound connections between humanity and the natural world. Through the diverse yet harmonious works of artists like Sophie Perkins, Nathan Henton, Toni Cogdell, and Sophie Baker, we are offered a contemplative journey that celebrates the beauty, complexity, and interconnectedness of our environment. Each piece serves as a reminder of the fluid boundaries between the human and the natural, urging us to reflect on our place within the grand tapestry of life.

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