About Vivienne Cawson
In the early 70s I trained in printed textiles at Leicester Polytechnic College. My working career began as a freelance designer of printed carpets for the European and US markets. During this period I began teaching art and design in Further Education on a part-time basis, which then lead to me becoming Head of Department for art and design, working full-time in Further Education for 26 years in total. During my teaching career, I painted and exhibited as time allowed. I began painting professionally in 2005.
I am a member of The Royal Birmingham Society of Artists (RBSA) and the Leicester Society of Artists (LSA)
I run workshops at my studio, demonstrate to art groups and societies around the UK and exhibit at numerous national events .
My passion lies in painting flowers and portraits in watercolour.
Pattern, colour and natural form are the focus for my floral watercolour paintings. Inspiration can be sparked by the flowers, their colours and shapes, a piece of delicious fabric, or special jug or vase. The contrast of natural form with geometric pattern is often a strong element in my work. I aim to produce a response in my painting that is fresh and contemporary, not merely a faithful reproduction and am inspired by the information set out before me to produce a spontaneous reaction. It is an exciting journey which I hope helps to keep my painting alive with fresh, vibrant colour.
A painting requires a little mystery, some vagueness, some fantasy. When you always make your meaning perfectly plain you end up boring people. – Edgar Degas
