Irene Butcher

I was born to Italian parents who moved to England when I was very young. Both were artistically inclined, my mother being a successful artist and mentor.
Landscapes including coastal scenes are my main source of inspiration, sometimes bringing elements of nature back to the studio to turn into still life subjects.
I am fascinated by the way light and shadow can play a part in creating an interesting and moody atmosphere, mystery and drama. Sometimes it's the textures and colours in nature that helps to describe a favourite place or the movement of the waves or gnarled branches of a moss and lichen covered oak along a coastal path in Wales.
Whatever excites my attention usually involves nature, the elements and my passion for experimenting with my favourite media; oil, pastel, charcoal as well as making original prints especially the drypoint and mezzotint techniques,[which seem to suit my love of drqwing and painting best.]

Ravensbourne '77-1980. Textile design, life drawing and photography.

Hampstead School of Art, London. Where I studied life drawing and painting under artist David Cuthbert. Also took printmaking/etching classes under the guidance of Theresa Pateman.
When I was fifteen years old I joined my artist mother at some landscape and life drawing courses [in Sidcup, Kent.] which started me off on a life long love and career involving art and painting.