Milford Haven School Art/Food Technician Katie George will be showcasing her art at the Joanna Field Gallery during November in an exhibition called A Little Bit Modern, A Little Bit Medieval.
Katie said: “From the word go, I have loved creating and making and it is that enthusiasm and energy that fuels my work. My work is an exploration of decoration, ornament and pattern mixed with modern line and space. I am fascinated by the techniques and craftmanship that make up our decorative history and find it a constant inspiration.”
Katie grew up on a busy farm in Mid Wales, where there was always something to do, someone or something to feed, to mend or look after and these duties have nurtured her creative streak.
“I think that having these jobs instilled an effective work ethic in me, and an enthusiasm to enjoy being busy and productive with whatever your passion is, mine being creative.”
Katie also runs The Big Picture Project Art Club on Fridays at Milford Haven School.
Katie spent an interesting period working for Toye, Kenning and Spencer in the Jewellery Quarter in Birmingham, learning the process of manufacturing small decorative enamel boxes for UK and American markets. She has also travelled extensively.
“Accuracy and attention to detail were paramount. I was employed as a hand painter in a team of highly skilled people where we produced and painted a bulk of stock working from a catalogue and also taking on many prestigious one-off projects and commissions such as The Eastern and Oriental Express, large manor houses and Royal events.
“I also spent some time in Southwest France, painting. The time there was inspirational and very exciting, as the churches and buildings are incredibly old and you can still feel a very strong sense of medieval times, so many textures, designs and peculiarities to fuel the senses, a lot of my recent work is directly influenced by my time there, and of course the light there is amazing.”
A Little Bit Modern, A Little Bit Medieval will be at the Torch Theatre during November and can viewed during Torch Theatre opening times. Further information can be found at torchtheatre.co.uk.