Description

The Long And Winding Road by Mark Davies

Mixed Media British Artist Mark Davies was born in Bedfordshire in 1978 and studied Fine Art within the region with his early works being inspired by the compositional qualities of Piero Della Francesca and Giuseppe Arcimboldo whilst finding inspiration in the surrealism of Salvador Dali. Now living in St Neots Mark works full-time as a professional artist from his beautiful converted brick barn studio within the Cambridgeshire countryside.

This scene focuses on the yellow brick road through the forest and all that hides within its’ shadows in contrast to what can be seen in the distance, beyond the rainbow – the Emerald City. The aim was to create a really striking, colourful and ultimately beautiful landscape that resonates the sense of hope that those who seek it out cling to. A magical landscape full of extremes, beautiful poppy fields, mountains and waterfalls where the warm tones of central sun shines brightly and directly onto the brick road, look closely and you will realise that the yellow is coming from the sun that guides and warms you but the bricks are nothing other than ordinary. Is it a case of blinded by the lights? Fools gold? One poignant detail within the serenity of the sky above the Emerald City is a hot air balloon, surely the Wizard isn’t in there and bailing out?

This piece epitomises the contrast and proximity of darkness and light, literally split into two. The road takes many a twist and turn and this particular point sees it framed and flanked by the darkness of the forest where any fears that you might be carrying come to life in the darkened light of the tall trees that are pinned together by a giant spiders web. In line with my Storyteller pieces the characters are not directly shown, instead you can picture these depending on with how you interpret the piece. However the key characters who walk the road are all referenced within the forest some might be a little harder to spot but for those who know how my mind works should find it easier!

What I have strived to create is a piece that on first glance looks beautiful and cute but on a closer inspection you notice that there are darker elements that sit within the shadows, even things that are deemed as positive and beautiful appear to be leaving a trail of darkness in their wake. This is done to convey the obstacles and hindrances that those who set off on their journey for fulfilment and salvation will meet, some blatant dangers, others much more cunning and disguised and ultimately more dangerous. What I personally feel is so lovely is that amongst all of the obstacles and distractions is Toto the dog, sitting there looking right at you and just waiting for you to continue onwards, unwavering loyalty and companionship. There are examples of foul play within the scene, showing that the journey is not going to be easy but ultimately it is a positive piece that is designed to be less whimsical and more real. The hope is for this piece to portray a sense of determination to succeed and tackle obstacles in your way head on whilst keeping one eye on where you are going, to keep on walking, baby step or full stride it doesn’t matter because each is one step closer.