Details

First Name

Jill

Last Name

McIntosh

Username

jillmcintosh

Website

jillmcintoshart.wordpress.com

Region

Perthshire

Disciplines

Painting

Themes

Abstract, Landscape, Environment

Statement

Statement

I am captivated by Scottish weather. That sky-struck spectacle of light and shade playing out above our heads, every minute of each day. Never dull. Always changing.
Racing clouds flash us an epic summit glimpse, folds of silver rain wash from rocks to sea, mist swirls wraithlike until – at last, that magical golden burst after a dreich day.
Our land is defined by weather. As are we. My aim is to snatch but a moment of it. To try and project its hidden dynamics and sweeping beauty into distinct two-dimensional worlds for keeps. I call them weatherscapes.
Most of my work makes use of acrylic medium and a customised wet-on-wet technique. Mixing my chosen paints with a knife directly on the canvas, I quickly follow up with a large, flat brush and often my fingers to spread, smooth and blend each mix. This process allows for spontaneous freedom of flow and the degree of tactile control that helps me create squalls, clouds and reflections more organically. It’s a hypnotic, intuitive method which almost seems to turn me into an impromptu weather maker. Once the groundwork is done I begin to focus on detail, to reveal texture and intricate structures using a diverse range of carefully selected tools.
For some time I lived and worked on the Continent before recently returning home to Scotland. Much to the disbelief of some friends, I felt overjoyed at my return to Scottish weather when leaving those stifling hot days and bland blue skies behind for good. “Sublime” might be a step too far, but I do believe that our weather here offers enough depth and perspective to enthrall ceaselessly; redeeming features that – once revealed – might even dispel the popular belief in weather perfection.
My paintings attempt to give weather the place in our heart it deserves. To capture the essence of living in Scotland. The edge that makes us unique. When we lean into the wind, rain in our eyes – that sudden smile at a flit of sunshine is precious, and as alive as we dare to be.

Biography

Biography

Jill McIntosh was born in Falkirk, grew up in Perthshire and studied in Edinburgh. After living and working on the Continent for many years, she returned to Scotland in 2017.
Drawing and sketching have always had a special place in her life. However, increasingly she found the need to further expand her ideas. After some experimentation, she discovered working in acrylics gave her the ideal medium to explore and develop her concepts.
Mainly working on canvas, she uses a wet on wet technique together with various tools for fine and highlighting detail.
Inspired by Scotland`s serendipitous weather, she endeavours to capture the vibrancy and spectacle of the world above our heads.
Whilst abroad she exhibited regularly in local and regional venues. Her work is held in private collection in Scotland, France and Germany.
Exhibited in mixed exhibitions at Resipole Fine Art Gallery Ardnamurchan, Laurel Gallery, Edinburgh and Atholl Gallery, Dunkeld.
Participated in Perthshire Open Studios 2019
Designed and created a unique art card range for Caledonian MacBrayne Ferries which currently retail exclusively in their on-board shops.