Hello, my name is Ian David Spencer, a photographic and digital artist from Cornwall. I have been taking photographs since 1979 and creating digital artwork since 2011.
I love trees. There is nothing more joyful and invigorating than being surrounded by them, where I find their presence very peaceful, healing or magical. Whether they are old gnarly oaks in woodland or ancient forests, tall slender majestic pines in coniferous woodland, trees that line country lanes or lone stunted trees on wild and windswept moorland. Spending time in each of these settings encourages and cultivates special feelings, perhaps redolent of something very ancient, timeless or even mystical about them. I can almost sense a vitality, an aura or energy coming from these amazing species coupled with an atmosphere in their domains that feels very special. I also feel liberated from life's trials and tribulations and a strong sense of connectedness to nature. It's as if I am longing to rekindle something deep from our ancient ancestral past. Dreams are forged, "portals" will open and my imagination and creativity start to flow.
My work is a result of that imaginative vibe. Using my photographs as a blank canvas, applying digital painting techniques, special effects and even composite imaging, I create work by allowing my imagination to flow freely and without judgement. As a result, my tree "paintings" can be ethereal, magical or even psychedelic. Filled with compelling narratives, palettes of beautiful arrangements, colours and textures, added sparkle, a dash of mysticism or spirituality - whatever "comes through" at the time and created very intuitively. I also draw upon my passion for science fiction and fantasy to help inspire me. Think a mix of Alice Through The Looking Glass, The Lost World or Stargate. But I also look to the spiritual plane too. A healing place for a healing or journey piece, perhaps sending the viewer on a spiritual path or to help with meditation. Each process of creation is unique and it is the unknown and unpredictable end results that are a powerful motivational force for creating my art.
However you view my work, it is my hope that you will feel a special connection to it and its narratives and perhaps even allow it into your space to bring special attention to you and those who view it. I will feel very honoured indeed. So, when you are ready, head over to my print collections page.
Thank you for reading and enjoy browsing my art.
(While trees are my main subjects and one that I feel a special connection with in my work, I have also worked with other subjects such as standing stones, of which Cornwall has plenty! A selection of these other works are showcased on my print collections page).
