Emma-Jayne Holmes initially trained as a printmaker, but following graduation met a painter and developed a studio based practice in oils. Over 30 years she has moved between still-life and landscape painting, with time also sketching people and life drawing. She observes and records her environment and is keen to get out and learn more about it. Daily dog walks provide regular observation for notes and sketches. Paths, tracks and rivers often feature, leading the viewer into the artwork. Over the past year she has been out sketching volunteer activities with countryside rangers in an attempt to better understand the local impact of climate change.

In 2019 she returned to study a Masters at the School of Art, Aberystwyth University. This prompted a move to acrylics. Previous experience had not been good as the colours seemed too harsh. They have proved more practical when working outside.

Literature from nature writers and walkers helps to articulate her love of the natural world, but her paintings say it best. Weather and light can greatly influence the tone and emotion of a view and the painting of it. Dramatic, uplifting, calming or reflective, all are subjects. That special time of the day, as it draws to a close, shifts gear and enters evening. The birds sing their evensong, people head home for suppers or out for activities, there is a change of energy in the air. It is also the time of day that can experience the most change in colours, if we stop to allow ourselves to appreciate it. It’s a wonderful, colourful world and Emma hopes her work goes some way towards people appreciating, protecting and cherishing it.