Gemma and Hollie

Captivating ‘Colours of Nature’: Isle of Wight artists explore natural wonders through art at Quarr Abbey

Two Island artists have come together to share their work inspired by our amazing environment in their ‘Colours of Nature’ exhibition at Quarr Abbey this Easter (13th-19th April).

Although inspired by similar subject matter their interpretation and response to our world has taken them each on very different artistic journeys. From Gemma’s intricate studies of pebbles and seaweed, local landscapes and seascapes, to Hollie’s aerial interpretations of the Earth’s natural wonders, their exhibition is sure to make you look at the world in a different way and provide interest for everyone.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the beautiful artwork and travel from the Island’s beaches to the stars above.

Hollie Jackson
Hollie has a passion for travel and our natural universe, stemming from her childhood, spent travelling Europe and living in Gibraltar. This is reflected in a lot of the subject matter of her work, which utilises colours inspired by the natural beauty of our planet and beyond.

Original resin art piece by  Hollie Jackson
Original resin art piece by Hollie Jackson

Hollie’s process involves the use of resins, texture pastes and an array of shimmering colour pigments to build up layers, allowing the viewer to immerse themselves in the depths of her work and explore our fascinating colourful world through her art. The overall effect produced constantly changes depending on the viewpoint of the observer, making each of Hollie’s pieces unique.

Gemma Mallinson
Gemma Mallinson is a mixed media artist, inspired by the natural textures and patterns that can be found all around us. She is currently working on a Developing Your Creative Practice project funded by Arts Council England and has previously had a successful solo exhibition at Monkton Arts Acons Gallery.

 A watercolour and mixed  media piece by Gemma Mallinson
A watercolour and mixed media piece by Gemma Mallinson

Gemma is passionate about the beautiful landscapes that the Island has to offer and enjoys exploring a range of media to capture the experience of being outside in nature and the fascinating textures and patterns that can be observed there. From large acrylic and mixed media abstract pieces to smaller intricate studies, her work captures the wonder in our surroundings.

Newman: Skillfully exploring the subject matter
Both artists are members of the Isle of Wight Creative Network (IWCN) and have benefitted from its development and support schemes over the past year.

IWCN founder, Georgia Newman, says,

“It’s really great to see these two talented artists come together through the network and share and collaborate ideas with one another.

“Their exhibition shows varying practices and skillfully explores this subject matter, allowing audiences to engage with their work in diverse ways.”

The exhibition runs from 13th-19th April at Quarr Abbey Gallery, and either Gemma or Hollie will be there each day to talk about their work.


News shared by Gemma on behalf of the duo. Ed