ABOUT KATHY NETTLES ART
ARTIST STATEMENT
My art is abstract expressionist – loose brushstrokes, vibrant colours that work together, and a focus on how the paint feels. I try to capture the spirit of nature, not just copy it exactly. I want the energy and emotion to come through.
Growing up, I was always touching everything! I loved feeling different textures, and that still drives my art. I start by sketching, writing down words, and playing with colour to capture what I see, hear, and feel. It's more about suggesting an idea than making a perfect copy.
Sounds and words are significant to me. I often write things on the canvas before I even start painting – notes about where I was, and what I was thinking, smelling, feeling. They're part of the process even if you can't see them later.
I build up layers of paint, then scrape them back, revealing what was underneath. It's like a constant back and forth, and it can take days, weeks, or even months. The final painting isn't just about the subject; it's a piece of myself too.
ARTIST BIO & EXHIBITIONS
Kathy Nettles is an intuitive artist deeply inspired by the natural beauty that surrounds her rural home. Her work captures the vibrant colours and organic forms of the countryside, local harbours, and shoreline—infusing each piece with a sense of place and serenity.
With a background in Nutritional and Holistic Therapy, Kathy brings a unique understanding of the healing connection between nature and creativity. This appreciation is reflected in both her art and her approach to living.
Through her regular blog posts, Kathy shares her artistic journey, offering insights into her process and inviting collectors to become part of her growing creative community. Her collections include original oil paintings, high-quality prints, and a curated range of soft furnishings—perfect for adding a touch of artistic elegance to any space.
From 2018 to 2023, Kathy honed her craft at the prestigious Newlyn School of Art in Cornwall, including completing the year-long Professional Landscape Mentoring Programme. She has also studied under renowned artist Ashley Hanson, further developing her distinctive voice and expressive style.
EXHIBITIONS
2025
Coast, Colour, Canvas Gallery, Roskilly's Farm. 12th - 25th May. Group exhibition featuring all the artists exhibiting at the Gallery in 2025.
Solo show and workshop at RHS Rosemoor, 21 June - 20 July.
SWAc London Exhibition 'Light in the West', RWS Gallery at 3-5 Whitcomb Street, London. 18th - 24th July. Private viewing, 18th July.
SWAc Dartmoor Exhibition, (Title to follow), 6th - 15th September. Private viewing 5th September.
2024
Sussex Art Fair, Goodwood, UK. 10th - 12th May 2024
Artizan Gallery, Torquay, UK. 17th September - 16th October 2024 (Group exhibition with Jane Hirst and Ali Hirst)
2023
UK (2023)'Wild Earth' Group Show, Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens. UK. 23rd - 25th June 2023.
Solo exhibition/event, Coombe Park, Mare and Foal Sanctuary. UK. 21st June 2023.
2021
Grand Living Realty Art Show, Palm Coast Florida, (2021).
Devon Open Studio Tour, Devon, UK (2021).
‘Cornwall, Colour and Coast’, Henley on Thames, UK (2021).
'Autumn: My Horses in the Landscape'. Solo Exhibition at The Castle, Bude, UK