‘Brighter Days’ is a joint exhibition by Ayrshire based artists Vanessa Reynolds and Catherine McClure, who have brought together an eclectic mix of painted canvases, fluid art, botanic contact prints, mixed media, and stitch. They don’t think of art as a straight line – it is something that lives and breathes, guiding them this way and that, organically. It is art that makes them happy, and they hope that their visions give you happy vibes too. This is a celebration of optimism, sunshine and colours of long, warm summer days. Evoking feelings of energy and freedom that the natural world brings, with its cycle into growth and abundance being apparent right now. Enjoy!

Hi Vanessa! What emotions or reactions do you hope viewers experience when they see your artwork?
I would like anyone who sees or takes home a piece of our work to be uplifted by it. There is enough gritty realism outside and we would like to spread joy and a sense of optimism if possible, through light and colour.

What’s your favourite piece in the exhibition?
Sweet Meadow. It’s the latest painting, took rather a long amount of time, (was on the easel for about 3 months!). I like the feeling of warmth and sweet smelling grass – without the hayfever!

How has your practice changed over time?
Art was the only subject I was any ‘good’ at. I started a long time ago with predominantly coloured pencil, then when I was more confident ventured into acrylic paint. Now I am older I am not a purist and will use whatever medium works! Mixing acrylics with inks and pastels. Printing and stitching into paper. The work shown here is mostly acrylic, with glimpses of other media. There’s lots more at home!!

How do you overcome creative blocks?
I have 3 desks in my studio/spare room. If I have a creative block while painting, I move onto my sewing desk or my decoupage desk, or make some labels or badges for the shop. Something ‘mindless’, until I feel like painting again. As long as I am using my hands I am happy.

What advice would you give to artists who are just starting out?
My advice for beginners is to spend time alone, isolated, lost in their own thoughts. Travel to unknown places. Read a lot. Be prepared to have the media ready if inspiration comes knocking the door. If you are indeed an artist your art will never end, it will evolve. Don’t pigeon-hole what you do. There are millions of artists out there, so do what you want to in your way. Please yourself, then it will please others, don’t try to second guess what people will buy, as that is not very satisfying, (but most of us do it!). Don’t compare your artwork to the work of others. There will always be someone you think is ‘better’. It doesn’t matter, there’s someone ‘better’ than them too!

Are there any upcoming events or additional information you would like the audience to know?
Catherine and I are exhibiting, separately, in the Open Studios Ayrshire this year. Catherine at her home in Prestwick, and I am at The Crafty Coo in Ayr.

Find out more about Vanessa’s work on her Instagram. ‘Brighter Days’ is on show at Six Foot Gallery from 1st to 15th July.