Landscape. _ Scape(s) #5. Painting

Scape(s) was the first series created by Jennifer Smith following an extended period away from her art practice. She was re-exploring her previous figurative works, while channeling new concepts and aesthetics. This is where we see her use charcoal line drawing as a starting point, and where the line as a key form of mark making takes prominence. As well as a study of contrasts and texture, there is a relationship between control and abandon evident. There is a sense of transition in the works, not just through the emerging styles, but also in the content of the images. The landscapes seem close and emotive. Smith had recently relocated to the Netherlands, and the textures reflect loose wild terrain of the west of Ireland. The nude figures sink into or are juxtaposed against this backdrop, and at times become the landscape, the textures and colours of one landscape traveling onto body in another painting.