Rachel Mclaughlin

After teaching in Oxford UK for 24 years and spending three years in Shenzhen, China, I made the decision to fully dedicate myself to painting. Despite being labeled as a 'semi-abstract painter,' my work is rooted in direct observation, particularly of my surrounding environment, which serves as my constant muse and companion. My goal is to capture the essence of a place rather than meticulously replicate it. I explore landscapes, distilling them down to their essential elements, aiming to evoke a sense of the location rather than reproduce every detyail. My process begins with plein air drawing, capturing intricate details and taking informative photos for reference. I then transition to my studio, where I simultaneously work on multiple paintings, predominantly on A3 watercolor paper, although I'm now exploring larger canvases. My paintings evolve with the seasons, weather, and time of day, reflecting the dynamic nature of the environment. Utilizing acrylics, pens, and ink, I embrace the fast-drying qualities of these mediums, though I remain adaptable, adjusting my approach based on the conditions and atmosphere I encounter.

Winchester School Of Art Hampshire England UK
Cardiff SChool of Art South Glamorgan Wales UK
Westiminster College Oxford Oxfordshire England UK

MilkWood Cardiff Wales UK
MIS Shenzhen China UK
The Little Theatre Torbay Devon UK
Artizan Gallery Torbay Devon UK
-Autumn Open
-Woman Only
- Summer Open
Torbay Guild of Artist
Scala Hall Brixham Devon England UK
St Anne's Babbercombe
Devon Open Studios
Oxford Open Studios
G39 Cardiff South Glamorgan Wales
Southwark Gallery London England