Introduction
Lara Cobden's exploration of the night theme at Colstoun was truly a remarkable experience that left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of witnessing her work during our in person exhibition. The depth and intricacy of her pieces go beyond mere visual appeal; they evoke a sense of wonder and tranquility that resonates with the observer on a profound level. Each stroke of her brush seems to capture the very essence of a Scottish midsummer night, with its delicate balance between light and darkness, creating a captivating narrative that draws the viewer in.
The grandeur of Echo Constellation and the intimacy of her smaller pieces all contribute to a cohesive body of work that showcases Cobden's exceptional talent and vision. The nighttime theme has long been a source of inspiration for artists, and in Cobden's hands, it takes on a new life, a new perspective that is both enchanting and thought-provoking. Her ability to play with light and shadow, to capture the elusive beauty of the night sky, is a testament to her skill as an artist.
Cobden's decision to immerse herself in a semi-nocturnal experience for an entire month speaks to her dedication and passion for her craft. The results of her residency at Colstoun are nothing short of extraordinary, a testament to the transformative power of art and the creative process. As a host, to witness an artist like Cobden translate a month of inspiration into a collection of breathtaking paintings is a rare and precious gift, a dream realized in the most beautiful and unexpected way.
for a list of available works please contact Mackie via email: mclean@colstoun.co.uk
Resonating with the Night
Throughout the history of art, the depiction of the night sky has been a captivating subject that has inspired numerous artists to explore its depths and mysteries. It all began in the 14th Century when pioneers like Taddeo Gaddi first dared to paint the night, setting the stage for a tradition that would be further enriched by the contributions of renowned artists such as Hieronymus Bosch, Caravaggio, Elsheimer, and Rembrandt.
As time progressed, these artists honed their skills and techniques, mastering the use of light and shadow to create captivating and dramatic scenes that captured the essence of the night. While many night paintings throughout history delved into themes of fear, evil, death, and sorrow through the use of high solid contrast black and grey shades, there were exceptions that stood out for their unique approach.
One such exception is Lara, whose works offered a refreshing perspective on the night. Instead of focusing on the darker aspects, Cobden's paintings portrayed the night as a realm of positivity, mystery, and excitement. Her use of colors and composition created a sense of wonder and enchantment that set his works apart from the rest.
Similarly, artists like Henry Pether and Vincent van Gogh also made significant contributions to the genre of night painting. Pether's "Bacino di San Marco and Palazzo Ducale, Venice" and van Gogh's "Starry Night Over the Rhone" are prime examples of how artists expertly captured the mystical energy of the night and the ethereal glow of the moon's light.
In her works, Cobden often utilized black to depict trees and foliage without light, a technique reminiscent of Ralph Albert Blakelock. Pieces like "Tower" and "Hermit" showcased Cobden's ability to create captivating compositions where silhouetted trees guided the viewer's gaze towards intriguing elements within the scene, such as falling trees or softly lit glasshouses.
Overall, the tradition of painting the night has evolved over the centuries, with each artist adding their unique perspective and style to this timeless subject. From the haunting landscapes of Hieronymus Bosch to the enchanting scenes of Cobden, the art of painting the night continues to captivate audiences with its beauty and mystery.
The Universe Lara Cobden's Night Paintings
Lara's exceptional talent shines through in her remarkable ability to craft interconnected universes within her artwork. Her series of night paintings, each measuring just 21cm in height by 15cm in width, transcend their physical dimensions to immerse viewers in fully realized worlds. As one gazes upon these miniature masterpieces, a sense of traversing through vast landscapes is evoked, akin to embarking on a journey through the gardens of Colstoun. The subtle yet profound connections between the paintings, such as the recurring motifs of tree shapes and sky colors, foster a profound sense of unity and coherence.
What truly sets Lara's work apart is the meticulous attention to detail that reveals itself upon closer inspection. A hidden gem lies in the painted lines along the edges of her pieces, each line bearing colors directly drawn from the paintings themselves. This ingenious touch not only unifies the individual artworks but also serves as a testament to Lara's dedication to creating a harmonious and cohesive artistic experience. The seamless integration of these subtle elements elevates her creations to a level where every brushstroke contributes to a larger narrative, inviting viewers to explore and discover the interconnected threads that bind her works together.
Colstoun House
Colstoun is approximately 950 years of Broun family history, the scenes lara has painted are the culmination of quite literally almost a thousand years of history. Unlike so many large British Stately Homes, Colstoun has never been knocked down and rebuilt, meaning that despite its size remains intimate, perhaps this is why these small night paintings feel so perfectly placed in the main house. Each little room connected to another with no doors and open corridors. This contrasts to the outside setting that influenced Lara Cobden's paintings, the vast Victorian parkland, the restored walled garden, the rhododendron paths and the river bubbling along. Colstoun hasn't seen many acquisitions of fine art for more than 150 years, and thus the residency and exhibitions provide a modernisation of the works on display in the house. with their realistic quality Lara's work provided a grounding for the more abstract interpretations of Colstoun and its surroundings a reference point for people wanting to understand the work from residents before and after Lara.
Conclusion
Lara's intimate night paintings possess a captivating allure that effortlessly draws viewers into a world of intimacy and seduction. Each brushstroke delicately weaves a narrative that is both sweet and alluring, inviting observers to immerse themselves in the intricate details of her artistry. When displayed on a large wall, these small yet powerful works do not simply fill empty space; rather, they command attention and beckon onlookers to explore the depths of their beauty.
The seductive power of the night comes alive in Lara's paintings, as she skillfully captures the essence of nocturnal charm through her unique perspective. The play of light and shadow, the subtle hues of the night sky, and the mysterious aura that surrounds her subjects all contribute to the enchanting atmosphere she creates. With each piece, Lara invites us to embrace the magic of the night and lose ourselves in its mesmerizing embrace.
Through her art, Lara not only showcases her technical prowess but also her deep understanding of the emotional resonance of the night. Her paintings serve as a gateway to a world where intimacy and seduction blend seamlessly, leaving a lasting impression on those who are fortunate enough to experience them. In Lara's hands, the night becomes a canvas for exploration, a realm where beauty and allure intertwine in perfect harmony.
for a list of available works please contact Mackie via email: mclean@colstoun.co.uk
Links:
website: https://laracobden.com/home.html
instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laracobden/
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