Shelly Cook

I am a self-taught artist. The rugged industrial landscapes, beautiful coastlines and rich mineral heritage of Cornwall have driven me creatively since my arrival 25 years ago. however, it was only after a succession of untimely bereavements more recently that I first picked up a paintbrush, discovering a positive way to process my grief. I have painted prolifically since, producing a large body of highly personal work connecting my love of the natural world.

For as long as I can remember I have been interested in details. Not the bigger picture but the finer intricacies, the colours and textures of life. I prefer to find beauty in the bark and lichen on a tree rather than the forest itself. The striations of a rock, the folds of fabric, the wrinkles of skin or the rust and the peeling paint on a weathered object. My work is mostly trying to capture this through colour and texture.

2017 Solo Exhibition at The Pickled Cockle, Newquay
2018 Group Exhibition at Steam for Art8
2018 Ongoing Group Exhibition at The Green HeArt Cafe
2019 Group Exhibition for Art8 Newquay
2020 Virtual Group Exhibition 'Unmasked'