Artist of the month – August 2020

Sophia Bloxham

What are you working on now?
I’m hand printing my ‘Barnes Swans’ lino cuts which I created during lockdown, I’ve recently had quite a few orders and I’m enjoying printing them in different colours. I’m also developing my design for a children’s bug themed memory game that started life as a gift to entertain my godson, and due to interest on social media so has turned into a bigger project, which is very exciting. 

How has lockdown affected your work?
For me it has been a real game changer. I was furloughed for 3 months from my busy full time role in the city, hence I have had more free time to rediscover my creativity. My art has provided me with focus through the ups and downs of these uneasy times. I’ve spent more time experimenting with new techniques and ideas and exploring nature. I feel refreshed and as a result my artwork is taking an exciting new direction, and even though I am now back at work, I really want to try and keep the creative energy and momentum going.

Recent technical discovery?
Soft-cut Lino, it’s so easy to carve and the process feels very relaxing and therapeutic. I haven’t made lino prints since college and I’m really enjoying the creative possibilities. 

Favourite artist?
That’s difficult, I love so many!  Beatrix potter was probably the first artist who aspired me at a very young age, I adore her children’s illustrations, and her natural history studies, which are lesser known, are wonderful and something I often refer back to.

I also love William Morris and Gustav Klimt the pattern and decorative aspects in their works have had big influences my current style. 

Favourite gallery or museum?
Pitt Rivers Museum of Anthropology in Oxford. I’ve been visiting this museum since I was a child, the old fashioned Victorian curiosity style of exhibits in glass cases and wooden chests is just magical and always fills me with ideas for illustration projects. The World Jewellery section is my favourite.

Colour you can’t do without?
Payne’s Grey. It adds depth in my watercolour without being too heavy. 

Plein air or studio?
Definitely studio, I prefer to work from photographs and I like having all my materials spread  around me, I’m a bit of a night owl, often working into the early hours. However, I get all my reference material from the photographs I take on regular walks and visits to parks, gardens and botanical collections. Mother nature is my biggest inspiration!

Barnes secret for an artist?
Not really a secret, but to take joy in the beautiful surroundings we have on our doorstep, from the gorgeous river views to the changing wildlife through the seasons, there’s always something beautiful to see. 

Favourite piece of kit?
Gold leaf, I just can’t get enough of it . 

What makes Barnes special to an artist?
The natural surroundings, the wonderful village like community spirit, and the love and support for independent business. I really believe Barnes is one of London’s best kept secrets. 

Next show?
I currently have work On display in cafe66 on White Hart Lane.