The Beauty Of A Spring Tide…

At long last, I can reveal my latest piece of textile art. A soft coastal representing a beautiful low tide, revealing all the natural treasure that lurks beneath those shallow ripples of water. This is ‘Spring Tide’. This piece was inspired by our gorgeous South Hams coastline and those that have seen it in the flesh so far have each revealed a different local beach it reminds them of. Any beach is beautiful at low tide - each revealing its own character and array of hidden treasures. Here it is in full…

Spring tides are often known as ‘King Tides’ and they refer to the springing forth of the tide during a new and full moon. It’s not actually related to the season of spring as spring tides occur all year round. It just so happens I have created it in spring!! The gravitational pull of the moon on Earth causes oceans to bulge a little more than usual and this results in high tides being higher than usual and low tides being lower than usual. As you can see, I’ve represented a spring low tide here. The science of nature really is quite fascinating, isn’t it :)

For me this is where the real beauty of a beach reveals itself. Shimmering rock pools, sea life, velvet mossy rocks, seaweed, random driftwood chips and glistening sea glass - lying in ripples of sand. If you’re lucky you might see some hermit crabs and starfish. It’s the perfect time for beach combing and enjoying the ripples of soft sand beneath your toes. I’ve tried to capture as many textures here as well as gentle movement. The treasures are endless, so much to see and feel - but I also love is the ambience of a low tide - the energy of the sea’s movement and the anticipation of the waves working their back to sweep the beach once more, bringing a sense of renewed energy.

Here it is in progress! This is an artwork I created entirely from my mind - my memories, experience and love of the coast all went into this. I so wasn’t sure about creating a seascape with so little water but I am so chuffed with how it has turned out and how the image really does draw you in - exactly what I wanted to achieve.

Here it is in its lovely new frame and hanging on the studio wall. I haven’t quite decided if I’m going to produce a print edition- I may very well go for embellished canvas prints - a special edition. I will have a play around and get back to you on this….

This one is on my website now. It’s a biggie!!! For more information, here’s the link. Visiting the studio is always an option of course, if you’re not too far away. Please do get in touch first though - just to be sure I’m there.