I've just been viewing the breathtaking artwork by "Serena Curmi" at http://www.rostragallery.co.uk in Bath where I live and I was absolutely blown away by her gift.
Serena Curmi was brought up on a sailboat, travelling extensively with her family to many corners of the world. Her education was varied, consisting
of both home and conventional schooling in the Isle of Man, Spain, the US
and Malta.
The environment in which Serena was brought up has had a profound affect on her. She has always felt humbled by vast, wide open spaces and this is reflected in her uncluttered, minimalist paintings. Through her use of composition and muted colours, Serena's work evokes a sense of stillness and quiet melancholy. Her use of fine detail is contrasted with blank or unfinished areas, thoughtfully rendered to draw attention to the key elements in the work, and thus suggesting a narrative. Solitary human figures are often coupled with animals, suggesting an affection and affinity towards each other, or at times provoking a feeling of unease or apprehension. Serena practiced as an illustrator for many years and has worked for renowned clients including the BBC, Houghton Mifflin, Boden Clothing, Simon & Schuster and Pearson Education. She now works as a full time painter from a studio in Bristol and has recently participated in shows at the Royal West of England Academy, Bristol Museum and St George's Bristol.
