About

Exhibitions:

20^th to 22^nd April 2012, “Art in Mind” Exhibition, Maynard School, Exeter, Devon (Photography)

8^th to 11^th September 2011, Cinco Cinq Viisi Five, Devon open Studios, Devon (Sculpture)

7^th July 2012 “Art Boot Sale” Wellington Junior School, Wellington, Somerset. (Photography)

 

I was born in France and moved to Devon in the 1980’s. Having grown up and worked in the urban surroundings of Paris I now look for open space as a way of escapism. 

Photography
My photographs are a representation, reflection and a mean of self expression using nature, textures and light inspired by the Devon landscape.  I enjoy the challenge of looking for the play of light, shadow and colours. I am often amazed at the shapes and textures one can find. Photography has enabled me to encapsulate compositions with which you can enter into a dialogue. I am always looking for the angle which will take images out of context, displace it and create a mood.

I also like to explore fragments of nature as abstract forms. Changing the focus, depth of field and using close up to give a better representation of the textures and colours, almost turning it into a painting.

Having recently travelled to Catalonia I found further inspiration in its Roman and Medieval architecture, culture, and amazing quality of light and colours.

Sculptures
I started creating sculptures about six years ago, studying evening classes.

Most of my work is centred around the human form; Looking at shape, angles, planes and contrast of the figure against aerial spaces.

To work in clay as a medium is my favourite because of its organic texture, fluidity and flexibility. Using the basic raw element of grog stoneware clay (gritty clay) and leaving it in its most primary state during firing, gives a lovely honey hue on the pieces. Experimenting with oxides and subtle glazes on white stoneware leaves the firing to determine the end product.

Working from slabs of clay, I am now in the process of developing and experimenting with new techniques when shaping my sculptures, looking at how different shapes, volumes and planes relate, interact and fit with each other.

Recent work has involved exploring with new pieces, placing them in different environment and merging the result digitally; looking at how the natural elements contrast in textures, colours flow and behave around the piece.

I draw some of my inspiration from artists such as: Gian Lorenzo Bernini, Auguste Rodin, Henry Moore, Barbara Hepworth, Philip Eglin and Anthony Caro.

Véronique Rivière

veroniqueriviere@europe.com