ARTIST RESIDENCY

WOLF, JAIPUR // JAN-FEB 2026

This series of works undertaken during my time as Artist in Residence here at WOLF reflects the botanical life I found in Jaipur amongst the unique architecture of the city. Plants seem to grow within the walls of the buildings, through the cityscape itself, as if the many murals and frescoes that adorn the city are coming to life. These plants thrive in spite of the pollution, the dirt and dereliction that surrounds them, both breathing life into the urban landscape, whilst simultaneously seeming neglected.

The decaying and disappearing frescoes on landmarks as iconic as the Amer Fort felt like a metaphor for the current climate crisis we are living in - decades of man-made pollution and apathy or disinterest in taking care of the world around us has led to the possibly irreparable damage to a once powerful and beautiful surround, and the loss of so much valuable nature.

“if you know exactly what you’re going to do, what’s the good in doing it?”

So many factors led to me abandoning my original plans and preconceived ideas; both practical - the lack of availability of certain materials and pieces of equipment that I would usually use, along with the obvious time constraints; and motivational - I could not have prepared myself for the extent to which immersing myself in these surroundings would inspire new responses and experiences to share. While my intentions for my time in Jaipur were to allow myself creative freedom away from the restraints of making for purpose, and to experiment without fear or expectation of end results, I found myself inspired by the unexpected, and drawn towards making in completely new ways. The works I made explored the textures and colours of the multi-sensory impacts of both the city of Jaipur and the expansive nature surrounding my studio at The Farm, drawing influence from the old Frescoes, stained glass and tiles, from block printing and carving techniques, from the pastel washed walls, the kites, lanterns and fireworks that peppered the skylines. I introduced new techniques, painting with knives and carving into layers of paint, alongside my usual brushwork. I experimented with more expansive colour palettes, working textured layers of paint inspired by my influences into my smooth brushwork with traditional oil glazes and colour theory techniques.

My experimental practice over the first 6 weeks of 2026 will almost certainly shape the work I make moving forward; I don’t know how just yet, but wasn’t that the whole point?