Abi Whitlock

Abi Whitlock's work focuses on the human form and the way the mind and body are affected when immersed in water. This is mirrored by the way light is refracted and reflected, distorting and enhancing colour and shape. Whitlock captures how upon entering the water the swimmer is able to enter an altered state of mind; a form of escapism from the real world.

Her inspiration comes from life in coastal Devon and trips to outdoor pools. The way she works puts emphasis on minute detail. This imparts every aspect of the painting with value and in turn gives the observer the sense that they themselves are becoming immersed along with the swimmer.

Although Whitlock works in a hyperrealist style; the way she paints water creates natural abstraction within her paintings. Water and its interplay with light generate unusual, distorted and complex patterns, altering the perception of everyday images.