Red Raw Studios was formed by Cumbria based artist Sarah Reid. I create abstract paintings, inspired by the atmospheric light and colour of the Cumbrian coastline, the Lakes and the Eden Valley. I am fascinated by the ever changing light upon the landscape and our place within it and I aim to capture an emotional response to the scenery.
I work predominately in pastel, occasionally with a watercolour underpainting. This allows me to add greater depth and layers of colour. I rarely begin with a drawing as I prefer to work instinctively and allow myself freedom for the painting to develop as I become absorbed. I aim to create an emotional response to the subject within the painting.
I am endlessly inspired by the dramatic scenery and ever changing light. I enjoy a fresh and vibrant approach to my subjects, often in a semi-abstract form and I invite the viewer to explore the scene - drawn in by unexpected hints of light and colour, strong lines and bold stripes.
I am a member of EVAN (Eden Valley Artitisc Network), BeeART (a community for artists in the north of England) Unstationary Artists, (a collective of emerging artists) and former Secretary and Events Organiser for Carlisle and Cumbria Artists.
One of my painting was selected to be featured in the book 'William Wordsworth’s Best-Loved Poems' by Andy Wild and Mike Healey and more recently in "Through the locking glass" - What Cumbrian artists did during lockdown’.
"You seem to me, without doubt my most dedicated and exploratory student. I really admire what you're doing and it's so refreshing to see how you continue to develop and haven't turned into a "hill, tree and a lake (in detail)" clone! Keep it up." Ron Ablewhite (Artist)
"You never cease to amaze me!" M Ellis (Fan)
"Intense!" Anna MacKay (Artist)
"It's all so evocative of all our loved places." P Pottinger (Writer)
All of the paintings displayed on my site are originals and if you would like to enquire about the availability of any of my paintings, please get in touch.