'Time to Change' by Ruth Killoran (New Zealand)

Ruth explains, "I’ve tried to express in my work the general lack of thought to our lifestyles. Animals are treated as trash, and the world and ourselves are suffering the consequences. There is hope, and to stop exploiting animals is a joy. It feels good to know you are treading gently on this beautiful planet and doing your best for its inhabitants.
There is a wealth of knowledge and support available and there could never be a better time to make the change to a more compassionate world than now.

I am inspired to create from strong human emotions. I feel passionately that all species are connected on some level and we need each other, not just to survive but to thrive.  My emotions drive me whether I am painting or sculpting.  I seldom have a plan, letting my subconscious take over and I am constantly experimenting and learning with the medium being used.

I love the spontaneity of painting with watercolour. I like the flow of paint to dictate the forms that gradually emerge, taking pleasure in creating flowing lines and shadows, hoping to create an emotional connection with the viewer. Stone carving with limestone evolves in a similar manner, gradually taking away layers revealing a form with a style unique to me.

As an artist I am compelled to work from my need to show people how I feel, good and bad..  The joy of being alive, the sadness of loss. Anger, frustration, disappointment, elation, confusion, misunderstanding, love, gratitude and hope for the future.  I have come to realise painting helps me see form in my sculptures and sculpting helps me see contrast and depth in my paintings. Both feed from each other and my time is shared between creating work using both art forms."

See more of Ruth's work at: www.ruthkilloran.co.nz/