Claudine’s World
Claudine’s World
What’s unique about my creative work is that my creative journey started as an exploration of the inner world and initially mostly took the form of large pastel pictures but for over twelve years I’ve been painting shells and pebbles, which I find during my walks on the beach mainly between Worthing and Shoreham. Some of these paintings on shells and pebbles are simplified versions of my original pastel images. Others originate from small commissions, specific designs that I’ve been asked to create.
Looking for shells and smooth even pebbles is an enjoyable activity, which I find relaxing and therapeutic. I’m usually more likely to find shells after stormy weather and sometimes find large scallop shells near fishing boats in Worthing. None are identical and all give an interesting surface on which to paint. The images I currently paint are a mixture of fragments of older images and elements of nature and imagination.
I enjoy working on a small scale and like details and precision, but it’s also convenient to create small pieces as I work in my small flat in Worthing where space is limited.
I use acrylic ink to paint stones and shells, which I apply with a paintbrush for the background and for the design I use a nib holder and fine nibs. Once fully dry I apply some varnish to protect the painting. The media I use has evolved over time. When I started painting pebbles about 12 years ago, I used watercolour for the background and sharpie pens for the design.
There are many advantages to working with acrylic ink. It’s waterproof, dries quickly and is pigment-based so colours are less likely to fade. Using nibs enables me to do more precise and detailed work.
A selection of my latest painted shells and pebbles are on display at the Gallery and reflect the current season with its beautiful colour changes and special events. Most of my pastel pictures are also available at Shoreham Art Gallery as cards and some as prints for people who enjoy the contemplative nature of my work.