Zoe Thorburn

BA Art and Design

In this project, I look at the interaction and clashing of human and natural landscapes, with a focus on the surrounding areas of my hometown, which has a long history as an army garrison. As a result, I frequently observe neglected structures that have decayed with time and become part of the environment, or artefacts left behind as a result of recent military activities that have also become part of the landscape’s characteristics. It has given me a new perspective on what the term “landscape” means. In this case, it is not entirely natural, but rather a combination of natural and human activities. Different in traits, yet typical to the area. These ideas are conveyed through a series of landscape paintings. There is visual evidence of current or historical human activity based on the represented objects, which assume observational priority in scenes and were painted with acrylics from selected photographs of these surroundings. The paintings themselves do not depict picturesque scenes like traditional landscapes but rather an image of reality.

The utilisation of the terrain by the military can offer a feeling of continuity and history that is unique to army-based towns, as well as a source of pride and identity for individuals who grew up there. However, the use of this terrain can cause tension due to the numerous warning signs, keep out barriers, and surveillance, which might produce a sensation of alienation from the landscape.