About Marian Hall
The beginnings
As a child — and well into adulthood — I believed I had neither talent for nor interest in art. Almost by chance, I attended a short textile workshop that unexpectedly shaped my creative life. What began as a curiosity quickly became a sustained practice of exploration, learning, and discovery; A journey I continue today.
In 2019, I left my career in project management to focus fully on my artistic practice. Over time, I came to recognise that creativity had always been central to my work in IT. Although those years did not result in anything being framed and hung on the wall, they demanded me to explore ideas, design systems, plan and problem solve, qualities that now underpin my art practice.
The inspiration
My work is primarily inspired by the natural world, often unfamiliar landscapes that I enjoy finding out about through my art practice. Sometimes the inspiration relates to the visual aspects and other times it’s the hidden processes underground that capture my interest.
Creative explorations
When beginning a new series, I spend a long time observing, researching and reflecting on the elements that most capture my attention. These observations become the starting point for material and design experiments.
This exploratory stage is a vital and a very enjoyable part of my process which cannot be rushed. The resulting works are abstracted from but connected to their source through process, the design, the materials etc.
Materials and Process
Print sits at the centre of my practice, whether on cloth or paper. I increasingly use print as a method of layering colour, texture, and marks rather than to print a specific image. Often these prints will be cut and layered to create a more structured design.
On paper I mostly print with acrylic paint but sometimes use oil based paint. On cloth I now use earth pigments suspended in soya milk to colour the fabric. Additional marks are added with hand stitching. I love the connection of the earth pigments to the landscapes that inspire me.
Exhibiting and community
I am a member of Herts Visual Arts, as well as more informal artist groups and value being part of a wider creative community.
I regularly exhibit my work through group exhibitions and Open Studios events. My work has twice been shortlisted for the Chaiya Art Award and exhibited at the OXO Gallery, London. I was recently longlisted for the Jackson’s Art Prize.
Sketchbooks full of explorations
Radio Interview
In the summer 22 I had a very enjoyable conversation with Leslie Tate from Decorum Radio, which was broadcast on 24th August 22. We discuss inspiration, ways of working and the ‘Marking Our Way’ project. You can listen to the interview here.
Virtual Studio Tour
Click on the image to go on my virtual studio tour
Read more about my journey from Project Manager to artist in my blog post here
Keeping in touch
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions about my work, my processes or opportunities to collaborate. I’d love it you’d leave your email address below so that we can keep in touch.