Mary Anne's new work is based on and inspired by the landscape at the foot of the Downs near Lewes, where she has lived almost all her life. Over the past three years, she has spent hours each day in all winds and weathers, perched on a stool just off the footpath or under the cool canopy of an Ash tree near her home, endeavoring to capture the ancient and unique atmosphere of these familiar hills. The results have been astonishing. As the artist herself says:

'Although from the outset I set myself the task of recording what I saw as precisely as possible, my aim wasn't to produce an accurate topographical drawing but something much more elusive, the vivid and particular atmosphere of the place itself reflected in the changing light and weather conditions and the tangible sense of layers of history tracking back through time'.

The powerful descriptions of the seasons and landscapes in the medieval chivalric epic Sir Gawain and the Green Knight are evoked loosely throughout the exhibition with the occasional appearance of a distant figure on horseback, making its way through the countryside.

Mary Anne's forthcoming exhibition will comprise of 35 new works and will be held at Portland Gallery from 7th - 22nd May 2009. The pictures may be viewed at the gallery by appointment. For more information please contact Maria Morrow, alex@portlandgallery.com.