Turner was moved by what he called “The weather in our souls”. He could see the universe in a rainstorm. My study of ocean currents found added gravitas through the weight of childhood familiarity. This search for emblematic last points of light within ensuing darkness involved long periods of contemplation on the complexities of nature from a familiar vantage point.

Finding company in the words of Thoreau during his retreat to the American wilderness of Walden:

All change is a miracle to contemplate; but it is a miracle, which is taking place every instant.

The framing of the camera helped to reduce the ‘noise’ of distraction whilst still portraying the swirling wild morass of life, indecision, strife, entrapment and the possibility of change. Deep swirling chaos with shafts of enlightenment impress one with a disarming sense of frailty. In the face of this awesome power we are left nurturing a tender hope for light within the ensuing darkness.

Through the production of these works has come a synthesis between reality and abstraction distilled through darkness. Contemplation is brought to bear upon mournful sensory visions of restored primordial beauty. One recognises the possibility of slowing down, and discovers the still small voice of calm that in the darkness may yet be visible.

Nicholas Hughes 21/01/2007