Art and Travel: How My Adventures Influence My Work
Sheila Hope, Sketching on a trip to Singapore
Travelling has always been an essential part of my practice. Each new destination opens a kaleidoscope of landscapes, colours, and textures that inspire me. I always carry a sketchbook, capturing fleeting moments and vibrant scenes. There is something unique about actively drawing while immersed in a new environment — it allows me to connect with the essence of a place, translating the sights and sounds into lines, form, and colour.
Travel exposes me to different cultures and artistic traditions. I find inspiration in local art forms and from visiting many art galleries and bookstores. The richness of new experiences encourages me to explore new ideas and techniques back in the studio. I create a space that reflects this inspiration. I work from my emotions and ideas as I draw from my travel sketches using acrylics, watercolours and mixed media alongside natural things collected. The addition of notes, including time of day, light, shadow and colour references, all remind me of those places. This environment fosters creativity. Each work I paint is a reflection of my journey and an invitation for others to see the world through my eyes.
Ultimately, travel is a purposeful part of my art in ways I never could have imagined. It fuels and ignites my creativity and reminds me of the overwhelming beauty that exists in the world. I am endlessly grateful for the opportunities to escape, and I look forward to my next adventure in Singapore and other countries.
If you’re inspired by my work and would like to experience it in person, I warmly invite you to visit my gallery in Lymington, Hampshire. Please feel free to get in touch to arrange a visit or to discuss any pieces that catch your eye.
