Susannah Oliver E


Instagram: susannaholiverart


Statement


Standing in Scotland’s ancient woodland, I defy you not to be reminded that we are all just passing witnesses to life amongst these quiet giants. I draw inspiration from the power of the forest, the magnificence and fragility of trees and my own sense of grounded-ness when surrounded by them. Much of my work explores the relationship of humans with nature. The damage done by humans to nature and the climate has been justified by our having separated ourselves from it. I believe a symbiotic connectivity can be re-established and sustained if mankind re-roots itself in, and learns from, nature. The tree is also symbolic of both the strength and fragility of humanness – of spreading ones roots, embracing growth and engaging in communication. So we can draw similarities between the co-operative networks within communities of trees, and our own communities. This particular piece of work aims to preserve the subtlety and sensibility of the forest. The series of lithographic prints developed from the roots up; a composition which symbolises the growth of a tree and the piece of art. Lithography as a process is significant to the piece, as the intricacies of mark-making resonates with organic natural forms.


Biography


I have grown up living in Scotland, her landscape always being a recourse to me. I am currently studying a 2 year MFA Illustration at Edinburgh Collage of Art, having graduated from my undergraduate BSc Hons Pharmacology (2019). I decided it time to follow my creative voice and I have indeed found a language with printmaking in my practice, particilarly Stone Lithography. I enjoy pushing the boundaries of what illustration is, engaging with the raparative role of art in the environmental movement.