TREE SERIES by Heather Haynes

The tree series began a two years ago by happenstance while I was using a “spray paint over lace technique” with which I had been experimenting. A line of “trees” appeared in silhouette. I reproduced this image, and one tree painting led to the next, and so on. From the moment I created the first tree painting, I felt the presence of my late grandfather. Although he had passed away nearly nine years earlier, I could feel him urging me to push forward and develop this series further. I began thinking of him as these trees and then began writing messages to him in my paintings. I have felt this series of paintings has been a huge artistic step for me and has opened many doors in my mind and in my career. I have connected my soul to my paintings through this series. My paintings stir emotions in the viewer. The colour combinations, the application techniques and the subject matter combine to stimulate the viewer’s psyche. Through the use of patterning, and many layers of tinted glaze, I am able to create a mystical, dreamy and deep effect. My subject matter is simple, leaving room for the importance of the painting process. I leave much of my painting to chance and I react to what is happening with colour, layering and texture. I strive to create an intriguing, balanced and fully developed painting. The paintings in this series are finished with a high gloss top coat, which creates contrast and depth within the layers below.

Heather Haynes  

home