How do you create your Jurassic Coast artworks?
I spend a great deal of time walking the coast path, searching for locations and views that inspire me to paint. With so many famous scenes, I’m often spoilt for choice, but I’m also drawn to finding some of the more ‘out of the way’ places that haven’t been depicted quite as often.
I always carry a camera and sketchbook, gathering as many references as I need before beginning work in my studio.
Acrylic paints are my medium of choice. Their fast-drying nature allows me to build up many layers of paint, creating richness of colour and texture. I use a variety of tools to apply the paint, including balsa wood strips, splatter brushes and sponges.
It’s important to me that the subject of my pieces remains recognisable, but I’m always exploring new and creative ways to express what I’m seeing.
How does the coast and its nature artistically inspire you?
I’m in love not only with the variety of sights, but also with the widely different atmospheres that the Jurassic Coast offers. Everything is constantly changing, not only throughout the year, but often hour by hour.
Some of the locations I have visited hundreds of times, yet no two visits are ever the same. Standing at the top of one of the many peaks brings a great sense of peace, quiet and serenity, especially when contrasted with the busy, bustling beaches far below.
Wanting to capture and record these different facets was the primary inspiration for me to begin creating my Jurassic Coast artworks.
There is also an unashamedly nostalgic element. I was born and brought up in this part of the world, and many of my childhood holidays were spent at West Bay, Swanage and Studland Bay.
After spending much of my adult life working in London, I moved back to South Somerset around seven years ago. Painting these places that have been part of my life for so long gives me a wonderful sense of reconnection with my memories of those early years.
Was the Jurassic Coast book planned first, or did the idea follow the artworks?
The idea for the book developed organically, albeit fairly quickly.
Alongside my paintings, I also produce detailed pen-and-ink drawings, often focusing on more architectural subjects such as harbours, quirky buildings and charming high streets.
Together with the paintings, I hope they build a picture of a diverse environment, made up of far more than its famous geological landmarks.
As the series of artworks grew, the creation of the book became a logical next step. Titled The Jurassic Coast – An Artist’s Journey, it refers not only to the physical journey from Orcombe Point in Devon to Studland Bay in Dorset, but also to my own artistic journey of discovery, and a return to my childhood.
I really hope people will enjoy the book as much as I enjoyed creating it. I would be delighted if it also inspired some brand-new journeys of their own along this unique stretch of coastline.
EXCLUSIVE OFFER to South West Coast Path supporters
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All pre-orders will also receive a complimentary pack of five greeting cards created to mark the launch of the book.
To take advantage of this discount offer, visit:
www.marctoddartist.com/books OR www.marctoddartist.com
About Marc
Marc is an artist and author based in South Somerset. His artworks are renowned for their vivid and expressive use of colour and texture, capturing the transformational effect of light on the landscapes that he paints and draws. His work also features on greeting cards and canvas prints, available from many UK and international retailers.
Instagram: marctoddart
Facebook: Marc Todd Art
The South West Coast Path 