MARK ARMITAGE

Originally from South Yorkshire, I have now been lucky enough to call
Saddleworth my home for the past 15 years.
It is our stunning northern landscapes that continue to inspire me to create
abstract and semi-abstract paintings and photographs. I not only aim to capture
the rugged beauty of this land but more importantly, to convey the emotion it
evokes in me. From wild moorland to big skies, rolling hills and rocky peaks. I
find the northern vistas both exciting and calming in equal measure.
I actually studied Photography up in Newcastle back in 1998/99 but feel
painting gives me that added freedom of creativity to display much more than
just a ‘real’ image. Prior to my photography study, I took a foundation course in
Art & Design, trying a ‘bit of everything’ before choosing a specialism. I
honestly LOVED all of it. I could easily have chosen fine art, ceramics or
textiles. I believe, if you’re a creative person, that’s it, you just love creating.
 
 
My paintings are bold and dramatic abstract landscapes based on the awe-
inspiring views I see around me every day. I have layered up mixed acrylics and
using a variety of brushes, palette knifes, rollers and my fingers to add texture
and movement to my artwork, try my best to re-create the emotions I feel when
engulfed in my local, natural surroundings.
Art is just something within me, something I just need to do, like breathing. I
will continue to express my creativity while I have life in me to do it.
While I do enjoy visiting galleries and exhibitions, and loved the art history side
of my studies, nature and in particular, northern landscapes will continue to be
my muse and the place where I am most at peace and happy.