Looking At Looking At Landscape exhibition - Des Pattison
Des explained the ideas behind some of his exhibits, highlighting the value of local treasures.
“The original idea of framing was showing the landscape as the preserve of the privileged classes who would display their paintings in decorative frames. I painted gilt frames white to make them almost ghost- like, reminiscent of gilt frames past. Just as the frames are reminiscent of the baroque framing of landscapes in stately homes, the images’ black lines are reminiscent of cartoons and link the image with the surface. 
Loosely done brush strokes are painted on digitally altered images. The colour changes take their cue from post-impressionist paintings. Bright colours are used to accentuate the surface as I am trying to use pictorial depth as well as surface images. The device is to make the viewer self aware of the process of looking at pictures.
It is very inspiring to be out in the woods. I am a constant visitor to the woods at Calverley, near where I live. But this beauty can wash over people because they become immune through familiarity. Making images of local woods and patches of countryside abstract raises perception and awareness.
These wonderful places are discounted, not seen as grand as the Dales, but these areas of woodland in our urban spaces are little jewel like moments that are all around us all the time. It is a cross between pointing out that these places are there and instantly accessible, and also a comment about intellectual appreciation. The high minded is available in your backyard as well. You don't have to be in Oxford or some elite institution to think more deeply about what is around you."