Passing even into my purer mind With tranquil restoration - Extra Large

This painting is a Finalist in the Bluethumb Art Prize 2021.
Lately I've been reflecting on my own personal identity and my sense of self, and I was inspired by the way that this image portrayed a sense of "coming into thyself". Something that I think we all need to do - checking in, taking a good look at ourselves, giving ourselves a bit of a clean-up, and treating ourselves to some self care and forgiveness.

Looking at this painting now I am reminded of Wordsworth's poem "Tintern Abbey"where he describes the medieval ruins of the abbey as a chattel to the self. The painting is named after a line in this poem. I've used a contemporary approach using techniques such as expressionism and pop art to capture a wondrous underwater rendition of "myself" in contrasting colours of teal and orange, along with cool greens and ocean blues. In this rectangular composition of an alternate universe, the light highlights her hands, face and her dress, as she cuddles herself under the surface.

In this painting I've used professional quality artist acrylics and mediums. The wooden board is supported by a wooden frame and is fitted with a wire and two D rings and is ready to hang. I recommend to hang the painting directly to the wall on the D-rings or to a minimum of two hooks to the wire - especially as this is an extra large painting.

Here is Wordsworths poem...

"Tintern Abbey"
Through a long absence, have not been to me
As is a landscape to a blind man’s eye:
But oft, in lonely rooms, and ‘mid the din
Of towns and cities, I have owed to them,
In hours of weariness, sensations sweet,
Felt in the blood, and felt along the heart;
And passing even into my purer mind
With tranquil restoration:—feelings too
Of unremembered pleasure: such, perhaps,
As have no slight or trivial influence
On that best portion of a good man’s life,
His little, nameless, unremembered, acts
Of kindness and of love …

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Kerry Inkster is a distinguished visual artist celebrated for her profound exploration of women’s stories and experiences through mixed media. Her mission is to make art for quiet women who've been told to be smaller, so they can remember they have something powerful and valuable to offer the world. At the heart of her artistic practice lies an unwavering commitment to amplifying narratives that reflect the depth, complexity, and resilience inherent in womanhood.

Through her underwater photography, Inkster captures the transformative relationship between women and water—a powerful symbol of emotion, fluidity, and rebirth. Each photograph invites viewers to engage in introspection while revealing the challenges, triumphs, and intricacies that shape women's identities.

Her painting practice further delves into the complex tapestry of women's lives, utilising colour, form, and texture to embody the myriad emotions that accompany their diverse experiences. The layered canvases serve as a visual language, offering audiences a space for catharsis, inviting them to confront their relationships with themselves, femininity, power, and vulnerability.

Inkster's innovative techniques and emotive narratives foster meaningful dialogue surrounding gender and empowerment, while her commitment to community engagement includes volunteering at local galleries to nurture emerging talent.

A graduate of The South Australian School of Art / University of South Australia, Inkster has established herself as a significant figure in contemporary art, showcasing her work nationally and internationally in esteemed galleries and exhibitions, including an Artist Residency with Comebeck Ltd in Germany. A multiple award finalist, with her work housed in notable collections, she remains a pivotal voice in the art world.

Kerry Inkster currently resides in Fish Creek, Victoria, Australia, where she continues to evolve her artistic journey, dedicated to illuminating women’s voices and experiences.