Rosemary Burn
Artist Statement
My art focusses on moments; those snippets of time from which I can find a story in the background, such as a dripping bath tap and the light carried in the ripples, a fly on the wall, the fleeting expression on a face, a nameless place. For me, these events underpin our existence; big events, highs and lows, come and go but the insignificant and fleeting remain and repeat, like a constant hum in the background. Modern life is hectic and often crazy, and my art seeks to still the mind of the viewer, and to give them an escape from their worries and frustrations.
What’s your background?
I grew up in the English countryside and I have always loved nature – I could be found at an early age examining things I found in the garden or out in the woods up close, and drawing them, along with mermaids and other things I liked. I also started playing the piano at the age of five. Later, I studied sculpture at Chelsea School of Art London, achieving a BA followed by an MA, and I also studied the piano at Trinity College of Music in London where I received a performers’ diploma. I divide my time between painting, practising the piano, and teaching the piano and violin.
What does it mean to you to win the Collectors Art Prize?
It means a lot for me to win the Collectors Art Prize. I completely believe in what I do, but validation from curators and other artists is always valuable and I am most grateful for that.
What do you think is the role of art in the world today?
I think the artist’s role in society is to literally bring colour and hope into people’s lives, a place to escape, to lift their thoughts away from the tensions and turbulence that engulf us all.
What would it be if you could change one thing about the art world?
Actually I think a very welcome change has already happened in the art world; artists have much more power over their own destinies now that they are able to access online galleries and platforms, their work gaining visibility worldwide at the click of a button. Gone are the days when one had to physically go to galleries with a portfolio asking to be considered for an exhibition.
What are your most significant professional achievements?
My most significant professional achievements – several of my works are held in the collections of two prominent film stars/ producers, as well as in the collection of the head of events and exhibitions at the Mall Galleries London, where my works have been shown many times.
What do you wish to tell viewers about your work that might not come out explicitly? What do you hope to inspire with your artwork?
My art focusses on moments; those visual snippets of time from which often go unnoticed, such as a dripping bath tap and the light carried in the ripples, a fly on the wall, condensation on a window, the energy in a landscape. For me, these events underpin our existence; big events, highs and lows, come and go but the insignificant and fleeting remain and repeat, like a constant hum in the background. Modern life is hectic and often crazy, and my art seeks to still the mind of the viewer, and to give them an escape from their worries and frustrations. Ultimately I am always looking for an alchemy between the figurative and the abstract in order to create a surprising visual experience based on a profound truth.
What advice would you give to the upcoming generation of artists?
My advice to the upcoming generation of artists would be to maintain a disciplined worth ethic when you leave the security of art college, and grab every opportunity that comes your way.
In what direction would you like to see your career go in the next five years?
In the next five years I would like to see an acceleration in what is already happening to me and my work – further recognition and more high profile exposure, so that even more people can appreciate what I am doing. Maybe some more great awards such as this one.
Country United Kingdom
