Rather than paintings of cataclysmic changes, they are a reflection upon how we see ourselves as 'other' within the ecosystem...
Sarah Bold is a contemporary landscape painter whose work explores the complex relationship between humanity and the natural world. Originally from Australia and now based in the Western Isles of Scotland, her paintings hover in the fertile territory between figurative representation and abstraction, creating visual conversations about our place within fragile ecosystems.
Artistic Vision and Themes
Working primarily in oils, Sarah's landscapes move beyond simple depiction to evoke the emotional and sensory connections that particular places inspire. Her recent series 'Big Little Scotland' examines our shrinking wilderness alongside cultural disconnection from nature and the environment.
Rather than depicting cataclysmic changes, her paintings offer thoughtful reflection on how humanity often views itself as separate from—rather than integral to—natural systems, observing environmental challenges from what she describes as 'a deceptively safe distance.'
Sarah Bold's Educational Journey
Sarah's formal artistic training began at the University of Arts, London, where she earned her BA (Honours) in Fine Art: Painting in 2013. She further developed her practice through the respected Turps Banana Correspondence Course, completing the program in 2021.
Her commitment to artistic growth continues through participation in the Society of Scottish Artists mentor/mentee programme (2022-2023), where she has both received and contributed valuable insights to Scotland's artistic community.
Thematic Exploration
At the heart of Sarah's practice lie environmental concerns including climate change, coastal and marine conservation, agricultural practices, isolation, and migration. These themes underpin work that contemplates our transitory existence in relation to Earth's geological timespan.
Through her paintings, she invites viewers to consider the true majesty that emerges from deep connection with specific places while questioning our often-detached relationship with the natural world.
Technique and Process
Sarah's distinctive technique involves building layered oil paintings that balance representation with abstraction. Her work captures the essence of landscapes while suggesting deeper emotional and ecological narratives, utilizing color and composition to evoke both the physical characteristics and spiritual dimensions of place.
Exhibition and Recognition
Sarah's work has been exhibited at prestigious venues throughout the UK, including at Graystone Gallery in Edinburgh. Her paintings have received significant recognition, including the ING Discerning Eye Landscape Prize (2023), the Jackson's Painting Landscape Prize (2021), and the Hulabhaig Curator's Purchase Award (2022).
She was also shortlisted for the Alpine Fellowship Art Prize, demonstrating her growing reputation in contemporary landscape painting.
Collections and Impact
Sarah's paintings have been acquired for several important collections, including the Tia Collection and Ernst & Young in Glasgow. Her work continues to engage viewers in vital conversations about environmental stewardship and our relationship with the Scottish landscape, contributing to a deeper understanding of place and responsibility in the face of environmental change.