October Spotlight: Christine Ratcliffe – (Loose) Expressionist

Many will recognise Christine Ratcliffe as a long-standing and hard-working member of The Arts Society Sandwich (TASS) committee. She has also been a driving force behind the Society’s now-biennial Summer Art Exhibition, giving members the opportunity to showcase and celebrate their work.

Like so many TASS members, Christine took up her paintbrush after retiring. She enrolled in art classes as an outlet for her creativity and, importantly, to ensure that time was set aside to pursue her newfound love of painting.

After experimenting with a variety of mediums, Christine discovered that acrylic is her favourite. She enjoys exploring different styles and genres, from the atmospheric paintings of Monet to the distinctive urban scenes of L. S. Lowry, as well as still life. She is particularly drawn to water and reflections, which can absorb her for many happy hours.

“When I pick up my paintbrush and face my empty canvas, I feel excitement and wonder at what is to come. It is a meditation between self, colour and form and is totally engrossing.”

Over the last couple of years, Christine feels that her own artistic style has begun to emerge. She describes it as ‘loose expressionist’, reflecting the increasing freedom she now feels when working with paint, colour and form. Her latest paintings demonstrate this developing style and a growing confidence in allowing the painting to evolve rather than trying to control every detail.

Painting has become a deeply fulfilling part of Christine’s life. She sells some of her work, gives paintings to family and friends, and fills her own walls with the rest.