Local Artist Support

For the second year running we’re featuring the work of a local Sussex artist on the covers of our annual tax titles. Chrissy Guest lives in Brighton, West Sussex, and draws inspiration from the Sussex countryside and coastline. Her works feature on approximately 22 Tottel titles publishing in 2008 and 2009. For more information on Chrissy’s work and prices please visit www.paintingsbychrissyguest.moonfruit.com

Artist statement

Inspiration

Most of my recent work is abstract or semi abstract and has been inspired by the Sussex coastline. I find that in using abstraction I can develop a feel for time, space, and emotion, the impact of which can be lost in a more literal painting. I will often draw and take notes in a small sketchbook, and then translate this work into paintings on canvas in oils or acrylic.

Technical

I trained in ceramics, and this has helped me to develop a love for surface and texture. My canvas can be deep in texture, and I use the tools of my ceramics to help construct and sometimes destruct the surface. I want the painting to attract the audience from a distance and hold their interest when face to face.

Influences

I enjoy the work of Van Gogh (overwhelming seeing his work in Amsterdam), Mondrian, Richard Diebenkorn, Willem de Kooning and Mark Rothko, abstract expressionist, (stunning in the Tate Modern!), the St Ives artists, to name but a few, and I love the way the impressionists captured light!