Nicola Watson

I am inspired by the seascapes and landscapes where I draw with mixed media. Then in the studio I use my studies to inspire oil paintings on paper and canvas.

I have drawn and painted all my life. I grew up on a hilly sheep farm in the Peak District. The connection to the land provided solace and inspiration.

During my art degree I became interested in the landscapes ability to create different atmospheres – open moors, protective boulders, dark caves and looking through trees to light – then tried to convey this in my work.

I have always enjoyed being in the landscape and responding to it. But I often found the landscape overwhelming until I focused on specific areas. Spending longer studying in one place helped me concentrate on absorbing the particular characteristics through my senses. This helps me connect and respond to that place.

Over a number of years I have created several series of work inspired by views from a place high up in the dunes looking across a Northumberland beach.I have also created a series of work inspired by a residency in the Algarve in Portugal focussing on the land which was very parched and arid.