Artist

Caroline McManus

Since completing her painting degree at Cheltenham in 1996, Caroline has developed her style of using bold colours and confident brush strokes. Getting her inspiration from local people and places, concentrating mainly on portraits and landscapes.

"My most recent work is a series of portrait paintings, inspired by cows. Their shy curiosity and awkward amblings fascinates me. On closer inspection cows have an individual response that has intrigued me to try and capture different aspects of their personality.

I am enthralled by this great beast which gives us so much sustenance and treats. Flavours of ice cream both old and new combinations are in the forefront of my mind when embarking on a new painting. The colours are absorbed, speaking eloquently and poignantly of how I want others to see the cows and as I see them.

Here is a cow and this is what it is to be a cow. This series of work is a reminder of our shared humanity and I believe it will help us to be more aware of the welfare and origin of how our meat and dairy are produced.

My work is a declaration of my interests and affections. I have an uncomplicated appreciation of colour and it is this that links my eclectic subject matter. My enthusiasm of recognisable themes within my art does not mean that my representational practices are only direct; it is not enough to just reproduce. I strive to develop; refine the subjects adapting to form images of cultural expression."

Related to: colourful, vibrant, graphic, animals, humour, quirky, funny, warm, cool

Inside Out - March 2010