ARTIST STATEMENT:
My artwork presents a deeply expressive and intuitive style, characterised by layered textures, vibrant colours and a profound connection to nature, awe and wonder. My subject matter often draws from natural elements: pond reflections, seasons and botanical forms serving as metaphors for inner reflection, learning and spiritual exploration. This approach resonates with the concept of “thin places” where the boundary between the physical and spiritual realms becomes permeable, offering moments of awe and tranquility. I hope my art invites viewers into a contemplative space, a sense of awe for the inherent beauty held in creation and colour. To quote Pope Leo: “Beauty Helps us to lift our gaze towards heaven”. If one of my pieces brings a sense of joy, peace and hope in the heart of the viewer, I have accomplished success.
BIO:
Alice Gavin Atashkar is a self taught, expressive painter, part of the ArtCan global arts collective. From 2018 to 2025 she was part of Studio Fridays Collective and mentored by Paul Regan RWS and Estelle Lovatt FRSA. From an early age she was fascinated by 3 areas which remain: colour, texture and the natural world. She states: "I’m interested in how we attach meaning to marks, and how that meaning is shaped over time by intersectional aspects. For example, my connection to texture and colour has been shaped by growing up in a South Manchester textile workshop and my Northern roots are in awe of London’s access to nature and vibrant arts scene". Gavin Atashkar has an MA in Art Psychotherapy from the University of Hertfordshire, and works with adolescents as an art psychotherapist. “My painting is a practice of dance, movement, expression but also prayer, worship and praise as I try to capture the beauty and majesty of creation. As a christian, this is how I express my gratitude to God for being alive at such as time as this, to reflect a small piece of beauty back into the world which can be so dark and cruel”. She has focused fully on her practice since 2012 and has participated in various London Art Fairs, Open competitions, Solo and Group exhibitions. Her pieces are hung in living rooms and workplaces all over the world ranging from the USA, Australia, Switzerland, Iran, Israel, Tokyo, Spain and UK.