Painter Ian Patience’s forays into Northumberland’s Cheviot Hills have produced what is literally a cutting edge exploration of geology and art.
Ian and amateur geologist friend Stephen Marker have made scores of trips to wander over hills which millions of years ago were a volcanic landscape.
Back at his home in Felton in Northumberland, Ian uses a succession of instruments to cut slices of a hairsbreadth thinness from the rock samples he has collected.
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He then examines the slivers with a specialist microscope which reveals the varying shapes and colours of the minerals within the rock.
This has provided the inspiration for a series of paintings which have now gone on show at the Bailiffgate Museum & Gallery in Alnwick.
The exhibition, titled Bringing to Light: Adventures in Geology and Art, continues until March 27.
Ian said: “I collect, cut, shape and mount slivers of rock to the point where they become transparent. Then, looking through the microscope, the rocks' hidden minerals are quite literally brought to light, revealing their identity, their breathtaking complexity.
“It opens up what has been hidden away for millions of years. It is looking at the Cheviots in a different way.”
Ian and Stephen have also investigated the Northumberland shore with an emphasis on the stretch from Howick Haven to Boulmer.
“One of the many glories of Northumberland is its coastline. In addition to its outstanding scenic qualities, it is geologically interesting and important,” said Ian.
The chair of Bailiffgate, Jean Humphrys, said “We are delighted to have Ian’s work on display in our gallery. The exhibition will appeal to art lovers, geologists and those who are intrigued to see the hidden landscape of Northumberland.”
Ian, who gained an MA in Art and Education at Northumbria University, has worked professionally as an illustrator, stained glass artist, as well as on mosaics at Whitley Bay and Gateshead Metro stations.
He plays the mandolin and also makes musical instruments.
Ian is now starting a new project working with geologists at Durham University which combines science and art, and explores crystal growth in volcanic settings and the ways to predict when volcanoes may become active.
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