A New Series: Field Notes
- Karin Cutler
- Nov 7
- 2 min read
Updated: Dec 1
Exploring the Essence of Rural Life
A new series is evolving. I don't necessarily set the intention to start a new series; however, as I explore and reflect, I sometimes feel a pull in a new direction.
Field Notes began as a quiet observation: small, passing details from life on our farm. The weathered sheds leaning into time, the twist of rusted wire, the shapes of cattle and horses in the distance, the texture of bark and rock, golden hour, foliage, and the glint of light on a creek after rain.
These elements may not be consciously noticed during a walk through the paddocks, yet they linger in my mind. They form a visual memory and a connection with the land itself.
The Essence of Memory in Art
These paintings are not about direct representation; they focus on feeling and memory. They convey a sense of place through marks, shapes, textures, and layers that echo what has been seen and felt.
The surfaces are built slowly, aged with soft textures, marks, stains, and muted tones. They reflect the landscape itself, weathered and full of quiet stories. Each painting becomes a fragment of observation, a personal record of the beauty found in ordinary things.
The Process
These are mixed media pieces. I use a variety of materials such as graphite, oil stick, crayon, charcoal, and collage (mostly from my handmade papers). I also incorporate sand, ash, and limestone in addition to paint.
I have many more pieces started, each on their journey, building history through layers. More will be coming soon!
Honouring Rural Life
In the end, Field Notes is my way of honouring the rhythm of rural life. It reflects the connection I feel to the land and the traces of time, work, and weather that leave their mark long after the moment has passed.
This series serves as a reminder of the beauty in the ordinary. It captures fleeting moments and transforms them into lasting memories. Each piece invites the viewer to pause and reflect, to find their own connection to the land and its stories.
As I continue to explore this journey, I look forward to sharing more insights and creations. The evolution of Field Notes is not just about art; for me it’s about the experience of life itself.
Let us celebrate the ordinary and find joy in the subtle nuances of our surroundings. Each brushstroke and mark is a testament to the moments that shape our lives and the landscapes we inhabit.
Stay tuned for more updates and new works as Field Notes continues to unfold.
See originals.
