Catherine Sargeant
Kelpie
Oil, gloss & pigments on plywood
Diameter: 17 cm
Catherine Sargeant's 'Kelpie' entices viewers into the mysterious depths of Scottish folklore through its captivating circular composition. This intimate mixed media work, measuring just 17 cm in diameter, combines oil,...
Catherine Sargeant's "Kelpie" entices viewers into the mysterious depths of Scottish folklore through its captivating circular composition. This intimate mixed media work, measuring just 17 cm in diameter, combines oil, gloss and pigments on plywood to create a swirling aquatic world dominated by ethereal blues and greens. The artist masterfully layers translucent washes and glossy elements to evoke the turbulent, otherworldly nature of water, with the word "Kelpie" partially emerging and submerging within the composition like the mythical water spirit itself. The textural interplay between smooth gloss and matte pigments creates a sense of movement and depth, drawing the viewer into the hypnotic, shapeshifting quality associated with these legendary Scottish water horses.
Mythology in Contemporary Art
The circular format of this artwork brilliantly reinforces its subject matter, creating a portal-like glimpse into the supernatural realm of Scottish water mythology. When displayed, "Kelpie" transforms a wall space into a contemplative focal point that bridges ancient folklore with contemporary artistic expression. The compact size creates an intimate viewing experience, inviting closer inspection of the subtle details and luminous qualities that shift with changing light conditions. Sargeant's work demonstrates how traditional Scottish mythology continues to inspire and resonate within modern artistic practice, offering collectors a piece that connects them to cultural heritage while maintaining a distinctly contemporary visual language.
Mythology in Contemporary Art
The circular format of this artwork brilliantly reinforces its subject matter, creating a portal-like glimpse into the supernatural realm of Scottish water mythology. When displayed, "Kelpie" transforms a wall space into a contemplative focal point that bridges ancient folklore with contemporary artistic expression. The compact size creates an intimate viewing experience, inviting closer inspection of the subtle details and luminous qualities that shift with changing light conditions. Sargeant's work demonstrates how traditional Scottish mythology continues to inspire and resonate within modern artistic practice, offering collectors a piece that connects them to cultural heritage while maintaining a distinctly contemporary visual language.