Catherine Corfield

“Painting, for me, is a deeply personal act—an emotional translation of memory and fleeting moments into lasting images on canvas. I’m drawn to quiet, everyday stories that reflect the heart of our shared human experience. Working in oil allows me to layer emotion—sometimes bold, sometimes tender—just like life itself.

My work revolves around connection. I’m fascinated by how our personal lives echo broader human truths. We’ve all loved, lost, grown too quickly, and looked back with longing. I often reflect on how we romanticize the past—even its hardships—through the lens of time. My inspiration comes from my family, my life, and the urgency of time passing. A walk on the beach or a tired glance after work can be just as profound as any celebration.

Working in oil affords a richness of texture and depth, allowing me to construct and deconstruct layers over time. It’s a medium that invites slowness and attention, echoing the temporal complexity of the stories I explore. Often, a photograph provides a starting point. From there, the composition evolves—guided by light, structure, and gesture rather than narrative. The outcome is shaped by who I am within that creative interval: observer, interpreter, and mark-maker.

I hope viewer...

BA Hons Fine Art, M.A