Previous Work

Oil Paintings

Priscilla Watkins - artist

I have been making art on a theme of water and light for nearly 20 years, and although I am a keen all-year-round swimmer and my work is strongly figurative, it’s the light that compels me to paint. These definitions will help explain.

Gestalt: a theory of perception describing how the brain organises and simplifies complex visual information by seeking out patterns. The brain cannot manufacture chaos. Imagine the pattern of light on the floor of an outdoor pool. In practice, If you try and draw this, the brain will find symmetry and rob it of life. It cannot be random. The brain craves order. However, over the many hours of painting this subject, I have found ways to help my brain let go. I can simplify what I’m seeing, to a degree. I can say more with less. I can anticipate what’s coming next. I have become fluent. I speak water! 

Komorebi: a Japanese term describing the shimmering of light and shade created by the leaves of a tree. Exists in that moment alone. I wish there was an English term for the lido light, especially that point where the light meets the shade. The simple line cast by the pool wall, the light falling in pieces onto a swimming body, the flash of the glancing sun and the indigo shadow trailing behind. I find it weirdly emotional and, if I try to put it into words, I think it’s because it expresses the close relationship between joy and despair. That it’s the darkness that makes the light brighter. Somehow we must always appreciate that and choose to be in the moment, and live in the light. This is what I want to try and say. This is me trying to articulate that word. Whatever it may be.

Gallery Exhibitions.

3-19 April 2025 Joint show with painter Jackie Clark at The Transformation Gallery in Brixton.

@studio73art @thetransformationgallery

14-23 November 2025 ING Discerning Eye Exhibition at The Mall Galleries in Central London.

@ingdiscerningeye @mallgalleries @parkerharrisco