The title comes from the name of an old steam locomotive which worked in the deep slate quarries of North Wales. These diminutive engines were given names of racehorses, like "red damsel"...I saw them working when I was a boy, perching hundreds of feet up on a gallery above the deep cerulean blue of the quarry pool, and have always been fascinated by them. Years later, when I was working on the Clyde I discovered an old railway engine at the back of a shipyard workshop and my imagination got to work. I think the image encapsulates what fascinates me about old machinery and the senseless paradox of being so passionate about something so damaging to this earth we all cling to. Sorry, that's all a bit pseudo! That's what happens when you try and explain your work, lol!! Acrylic on paper, A4 size.
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anirban bora 09 Oct 2006
this is lovelyLeo Da 28 Jul 2006
interestingthea walstra 02 Feb 2006
You have a unique style and your compositions and use of colors is excellent. Very beautiful art IainDeborah Martin 29 Jan 2006
It is a fascinating abstract Iain..with the face of Lady Madcap.... I think I can just make out a little boat below...and an oar..this is one of your signatures I think! ....I can certainly understand the contradictions ...that is only natrual....lol..In my own way I can understand your fascination with old machinery...Another marvellous and imaginitive work!!!eileen martin 09 Dec 2005
what an interesting and creative style you have, nice detail mixed with eye popping abstract:)