My Friend the Robin (nfs)

Description

Alongside the “Spaces” theme for the Love North Chingford Arts Traill October 2026, I have been simultaneously been painting some of Reneé’s black and white abstract inspired pieces in colour or my black and white versions. I believe Renée had been inspired by Henri Matisse cut-outs during the late 1970s, and had created a vast body of black and white charcoal abstract works. This particular work took on a life of its own through the brush strokes dictating shapes and colours.  The robin, known as a symbol of love, rebirth, hope and renewal,  and wiidely believed that “when robins appear, loved ones are near,” acting as a sign from spirits of those who have passed. This friend appeared and showed itself,  spontaneously in the painting, represented the robins that Mama Renée loved so much in her garden.