Allan J Robertson

The Ribs

Oil
Canvas
70 x 30 x 6 cm

£1,250

“My work explores a very specific and compelling territory – I am drawn to the liminal spaces between civilization and nature, particularly focusing on the foreshore and architectural structures that exist in these ambiguous zones. What makes my perspective unique is the ability to find beauty in Scotland’s forgotten industrial heritage – the abandoned piers, derelict buildings, old garages, fish huts, and boatyards that most people walk past without truly seeing. These structures are emotive territory for exploration. I like to utilise their planes and surfaces to draw the viewer into the image, exploring the colours and textures of the forms. Rather than the simple process of recording the scene I like to change the viewer’s perspective, so they respond to the ambience and atmosphere of the piece. I work mainly in oils because the paint lends itself to achieving subtlety and depth of colour through the layering of paint. Oil paint takes time to dry and you can use this time to further manipulate the paint. The techniques used to create the finished piece include dripping, layering and splashing paint, rubbing back into the paint, distressing the surface and utilising brushes and rags.”