Kate Bentley RI RSW

Orange Route

I am a narrative painter. My location and landscape hugely influence her subject matter. Historically, I am a ‘painter of life,’ utilising en plein air sessions and life drawing to inform my narrative paintings. My fascination with mark-making, layering and textures fuels my passion for experimentation and constantly pushes through new techniques to develop into fresh ideas.

My narrative evolves from her love of the human form, pattern, chiaroscuro and theatricality. My initial training as a Theatre Designer and Sculptor is apparent.

About My Practice

The paintings fall into 2 categories. My studio paintings mainly involve working from my imagination often with narrative undertones. My en plein-air paintings fuel this output.

I enjoy both aspects and each is important in developing my practice. Expect to see experimental and traditional paintings coupled with a wide skill set.

Tools & Materials

With watercolours I use traditional materials but in a contemporary and unique manner. No wishy-washy watercolours here..!

In oils I work in a traditional way but use resin-based glazes to enhance my finish and build multiple layers. I sometimes experiment with layers of printing at the underpainting stage (in both media). Mark-making and getting rid of the ‘white’ is always my first port of call…the rest is a journey of discovery with no planning involved.