This work began unusually for me – with reference material – to preserve the memory of a day walking through the North York Moors. The weather shifted constantly: bursts of dazzling light followed by sudden rain transformed wet roads into shimmering, river-like surfaces, their glint echoed here in the use of gold leaf.

The moorland, recently burned back, shed water in torrents towards reinforced riverbanks, unable to slow or absorb the flow. It was a striking reminder of the fragile balance between upland management and flood prevention.

I chose not to mirror the colours of the day exactly, instead adopting a cool, blue-tinged palette to evoke the rain-soaked air and shifting light – distilling the essence of the experience rather than its literal appearance.

Painted with oils, cold wax and gold leaf on a deep edged wooden panel.

Size: 122 x 122 cm