Laura Medcalf is a British-Hungarian multidisciplinary artist who graduated with a BA Hons degree in Fine Art from the Arts University Bournemouth in 2018.
With a distinctive technique, Medcalf explores the delicate interplay between humanity and nature, capturing the transient beauty of natural phenomena. Her organic compositions, created using rocks, sand, and plants gathered from the shores of freshwater and saltwater environments, such as seas, oceans, and rivers, examine the subtle shifts and interplay of various shades of blue. By harnessing the power of water and sunlight, Medcalf embraces an experimental approach that fosters a symbiotic relationship with nature while engaging in a meditative painting process. This method allows her to immerse herself fully in the present moment, experiencing a deep connection to the here and now. The work also celebrates the physicality of painting itself, incorporating abstract expressionist elements that highlight the energy, dynamism, and flow of the creative expression.
The resulting works go beyond mere representation, serving as genuine reflections of nature. Each piece is carefully formed to capture the essence of every moment in the process, preserving nature’s fleeting beauty for eternity. Driven by the desire to preserve the ephemeral, Medcalf transforms temporary moments of natural wonder into enduring expressions of her unique vision. In this paradox, she strives to make the ephemeral permanent, turning transient phenomena into lasting pieces of expression. The works are shaped by guided serendipity, with the motifs, the intensity of the mystical blue hues, and the surface textures all influenced by environmental factors such as the type and quality of water, the strength of sunlight, and the presence of minerals, rocks, and botanical fragments.
These works invite reflection on shifting landscapes, fragile ecosystems, and the powerful forces that shape our world. While each piece follows the same approach, no two are alike, as they are shaped by the distinct characteristics of the environment in which they are created. The works celebrate the natural world, showcasing a rich variety of blues and textures that have become a defining characteristic of Medcalf’s practice.