Anne Blackwell Fox
The first art prize I won was at primary school. It was a book called ‘Sketching Out of Doors’ by Leonard Richmond. It’s the only prize I’ve ever won.
It’s something I still enjoy doing today! Usually when I’m settled in a quiet spot by a river or in woodland. It’s at these quiet moments that give me time for personal reflection and grounds me in the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
This is where the inspiration for my art work begins. Being absorbed in our natural world, taking time out to listen to the rustle of leaves or the flow of the river, can for me be a mesmerising experience and I want to capture this in my work.
The sketches I make and my photographs combine to inform the outcome of my paintings. I mainly use oils on canvas or board and also make mixed media sketches.
Printmaking is another aspect of my work and I love the thrill of seeing the outcome as the paper comes out of the press.
Not a typical academic, obtaining a BA(Hons) in Recreation and Community with Art & Design at the College of St Mark and St Johns (Marjons) in my early 30’s was an achievement that I was proud of. Although my artistic career wasn’t to be, over time I continued to have a love and yearning to be creative.
Following the loss of my husband, I reignited my artistic journey again and in 2011 I gained a BA(Hons) in Fine Art at University College Falmouth. My paintings at the Final Show paid homage to the places we visited which became silent.
From this time I have continued with my art work and I’m still drawn to places that are natural landscapes where I find solace. I have shown my work at the Artmill Gallery and Homeframe Gallery in Plymouth and at various shows in Cornwall. I belong to the Flushing Art Practice Group where we discuss and support each other, which I find invaluable as an artist working alone. After I remarried, sharing new experiences in different parts of Cornwall in particular, has resulted in a growing body of work. reflecting the beauty of the Cornwall landscape and my many visits abroad. I explore a range of themes in my work and am inspired by both landscape and figurative images I encounter.
Where's your favourite place?
There are many, including 7th Rise on the River Fal (an isolated cottage and wood), The coastline at Trevose Head, North Cornwall, Mount Edgcumbe and the Rame Peninsula, and Brittany.
What's your favourite book and/or film?
Had to go with an oldie – ‘A Town Like Alice’ by Nevil Shute (it’s one that’s always stayed with me). 'Where the Crawdads Sing' by Delia Owens is a more recent read that paints a picture for me of our connection to our natural world.
What irritates you?
This was tough, but I’ll go with litter bugs and myself when I can’t get my head around the computer.
Who would you most like to meet (anyone dead or alive)?
I’d like to meet Grayson Perry. I love his honesty, acceptance of people for who they are and for being non-judgemental.
Who is your hero/who do you most admire?
My hero is David Attenborough, need I say more or why.
What motivates and inspires you?
I’m inspired by our natural world, love seeing art work in shows, my friends, family and husband who continue to amaze me with their generosity, love and support.