THE PROCESS >
The execution or process involved in the making of my work, along with the viewing process, is important in understanding my art. I like to make visible the traces of these processes and I endeavour to draw attention to the surface of the image where the addition and subtractive removal of many layers are registered. I like to think that the viewer got a sense of time that had passed in the execution of the works. In other words, each painting has a sense of ‘history’ which I see as an inscription of my journey through that particular painting. These layers are built up using 'true' gesso which is a traditional 'ground' used by old masters. Its absorbency and texture enables me to stain and watermark and then reduce by sanding back, depending how I am interpreting the development of the work. I also like to group images in a series or sequence where one component of a work may be read in relation to another according to a logic or theme. I am interested in the photographic image and its place within and in relation to paint. My new work is influenced by digital media and photography, where I am taking layering processes to new levels. Working on the interface between photography and the painted mark on aluminium and glass enables me to produce ambiguous plays with actual marks, reflections, transparencies and shadows.
All artwork, electronic and printed images are protected by copyright © Heather Hourigan. Usage of these images is not permitted without the prior permission of the artist. All rights reserved.
