This body of work was created whilst in my final year of study at the Gray’s School of Art, and was focused on exploring the city’s architecture. In my research I came across several buildings that were in the process of being redeveloped or demolished. I believe that the impact of changing, and in some cases removing these structures from the urban landscape creates a feeling of loss and this is what I have tried to capture in these works. Using oils and mixed media has given me the chance to explore the relationship between the buildings and their surroundings. Working with charcoal has enabled me to portray their strong presence, and also their un-aesthetic; but nostalgic appeal.
The Get Carter car park based in Gateshead dominates the town’s skyline. This particular building featured in the film Get Carter, a brilliant location for the iconic film which is also planned for complete demolition. As of June 2010, the main structure of the car park is still intact, although the low lying buildings around it have been demolished and the main structure is close to being removed and replace by a shopping complex. When first built, this building was seen as a symbol of hope, and now represents a false metaphor for a Brave New World and regeneration of Gateshead.
