Salliann Putman NEAC

Statement

Salliann has always been driven to paint. She describes herself as an intuitive painter, seeking to express her feelings. Subject matter is of little importance, It is the abstract qualities of colour, mark and space that are the real content of the work. Her inspiration comes from those artists who ‘give life to painting’, Pierre Bonnard, Richard Diebenkorn, Nicholas de Stael, William Scott and Mark Rothko.

Methodology

‘A constant search - an endless journey’  is how Salliann describes her endeavours. She enters her studio with an attitude of ‘not knowing’ prepared to take risks. She believes that there is little point in repeating what you know you can do. Technique is of little consequence – each brushstroke is a first – an expression of something deep within. Her inspiration comes from observation, memory, imagination, and most of all from her emotions.

When Salliann begins a work she has no idea how the finished piece will look, for constant alterations and adjustments are made. Areas may be painted out, concealing or partly revealing what has gone before. She works on a series of pieces at a time, allowing them to ‘speak’ to each other.

One of her biggest challenges is knowing when a work is complete – when it has energy and life and the feeling that led to its making. 

Bio

1937   Born

1960 to 1988   Art Teacher – London Schools and Coworth Park School, Sunningdale

1988 to 1993       West Surrey College of Art and Design, Farnham –  obtaining an Honours Degree in Fine Art

1987-   Painting Courses at Philipps House, Wiltshire and at Dedham Hall, Essex

Memberships

Royal Watercolour Society

The Small Paintings Group