Beyond The Frame: Abstract and Landscape Visions

Beyond the Frame brings together the compelling works of Martin Irish and Mairi Macaulay. The exhibition showcases their different approaches to portraying the landscape.

Despite the different mediums they use—abstract painting and photography—both artists share a profound passion for nature. This passion is the thread that weaves their works together, creating a harmonious dialogue between their diverse yet complementary approaches to portraying the landscape.

Martin’s paintings delve into the emotional and atmospheric qualities of natural landscapes. His use of colour, dynamic brushstrokes, and layered textures invites viewers to experience the essence of nature rather than its literal representation. Martin’s work often evokes the ephemeral beauty of natural phenomena such as the shifting light of dawn or the turbulent energy of a storm. His abstract approach allows for a personal interpretation, making each piece a unique emotional journey for the viewer.

Mairi, on the other hand, captures the raw beauty of the natural world through her lens. Her photographs are a testament to her keen eye for detail and her ability to capture fleeting moments that reflect the soul of the landscape. Mairi’s work often features serene and untouched scenes, emphasizing the tranquillity and majesty of nature. Her photographs are not only visually striking but also imbued with a sense of reverence and respect for the environment.

Although Martin and Mairi employ different mediums, their works are united by shared themes and a deep emotional resonance. Both artists focus on capturing the mood and essence of the landscape, rather than a literal depiction. This approach allows them to convey the beauty, complexity, and transient nature of the natural world. Their works invite viewers to look beyond the surface and to connect with the deeper emotional and spiritual qualities of the landscapes they portray.

Martin Irish is an internationally acclaimed abstract artist based in the Highlands of Scotland. He creates vibrant yet moody paintings, captivating viewers with bold strokes and an unmistakable passionate energy. Imbued with lush abstract landscapes, his works are full of soul and emotion, spilling into the canvas as if created with an internal fire. Allowing colours and forms to pour out of him, he produces art which holds a mysterious beauty. His creations are wild and dynamic, resulting in a vivid explosion of emotions. His deep love for the beauty of nature and appreciation for the power of the elements shines through each layer, conveying an intense emotion in each artwork. With a strong focus on abstraction and the play of light and shadow, his captivating compositions unravel within the viewer, creating an immersive sense of awe. Martin Irish’s art is a unique experiment with the intersection between imagination and creativity, creating an alluring world of his own through his masterfully crafted pieces, constantly pushing boundaries and exploring the beauty of nature.

Mairi Macaulay is a Highland-based photographer whose work transcends the mere depiction of stunning scenery. With a particular passion for landscapes and seascapes, her images evoke a deep sense of place and atmosphere, drawing viewers into the very heart of the locations she captures. Mairi’s approach to photography is characterized by her preference for creating mood in her images. Rather than waiting for the perfect weather, she embraces the elements, finding beauty and inspiration in all conditions. Whether it’s the dramatic light of a stormy sky or the serene calm of a misty morning, Mairi’s ability to capture the essence of a location goes beyond simple representation. Each image is thoughtfully framed to convey a specific feeling or narrative. Through her lens, she invites the viewer to experience the beauty and ever-changing moods of the land and sea. Light plays a crucial role in Mairi’s photography. She has a keen eye for the interplay of light and landscape, capturing moments of fleeting beauty that might otherwise go unnoticed. Mairi is an Associate of the Royal Photographic Society and has been shortlisted several times in national and internation photography competitions.