Our collaborative mural was a gratifying and satisfying process, inspired by our collective journey and significant experiences we felt lucky and grateful to encounter. The entire concept of Riud Art street art project is inspiring, alongside the inspiring people who donate their private space for a community based and social project. I’d like to thank Otto for donating his wall and for him to trust us, and I’d like to thank Riba Rocks and Riud Art associations.
The mural discusses ideas of human control and natural chaos. Linking our significant journey inside the dam, the dam opening, Sebes Nature Reserve wetlands, striking birds, wind turbines, fish, poppies, rosemary and olives. All alongside illustrations on upcycled bottle caps depicting personalised features for Otto featuring his house, pets and the local area.
Continuing with the chaotic and controlled theme, it bled into the painting techniques we used, considering every opportunity to link back to the overriding concept. Jodie was master of the control area. Here she carefully drafted and constructed the crisp sharp angles lines and mathematically aligning the upcycled wooden pallet to perfection. Emma and Eden were leading the freedom of chaotic growth, using paint splatter techniques and simplified shapes to create a meandering area of life. And, I drafted the silhouette shapes of the birds in flight and feed, constructing a composition mentally as I went to keep a feeling of loose freedom and uncontrollability. The perspective shifting stork contrasts with the birds-eye view of the fish, touching on a sense of visual distortion.
Together this experience was incredibly educational, inspirational and hopeful.
To our delight the mural has been chosen to feature in this years Lacuna Festival in Lanzarote with the theme ‘Clash’. The work will be featured in their digital exhibition in July with presentation of our inspirations.