My work focuses predominately on the human form and how the mind and body are affected when immersed in water. This is mirrored by the way light is refracted and reflected, distorting and enhancing colour and shape. I try to capture the way entering the water enables the swimmer to enter an altered state of mind; a form of escapism from the real world.

My inspiration comes from life on the coast, trips to the beach and outdoor pools. Swimming in the sea re-acquainted me with childhood memories of learning to swim; my first discovery of the extraordinary experience of being underwater and holiday’s abroad snorkeling.

The way I work puts emphasis on minute detail. Every aspect of the picture is given value, not just the focal point of the painting but also the intricacies of the background which are so often an after- thought. When I paint find myself becoming immersed in the piece; as if I myself am being submerged.

Although I work in a very realist style, painting water creates natural abstraction within the piece. Water and its interplay with light generate unusual, distorted and complex patterns, altering the perception of everyday images.

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Ruby by the Shore by Abi Whitlock

Acrylic painting