Rachael Walker
Resin Artist
Describe who you are and what you do.
My name is Rachael Walker, I live and work in Shrewsbury. I spilt my time between being a mum to 2 little boys, running a small commercial embroidery business and developing my art by creating and selling my resin work. My technique involves pouring fluid resin on wood or canvas surfaces. The resin leaves a high gloss shiny finish which is synonymous to my work. I currently sell through Shropshire and Cheshire galleries, restaurants and solo exhibitions.
How and where do you work to create your art?
I work in my studio in the garden which looks out onto green fields and forest. I use acrylic to paint a basic composition or solid background colour with an idea in mind as to how I want the piece to look. I prep all my colours and materials and ensure my studio is dust free as possible, I wear gloves, overalls and if I'm working on large pieces a mask for protection. I mix the resin with hardener and then with colour in small cups, I begin pouring onto the painted surface and spread the resin to the edges so no patches are left bare. The resin spreads naturally and is self levelling but I manipulate its direction by tilting the canvas. I have 2-3 hours to do this before the resin starts to cure. Each piece takes on a journey of its own and will take on many forms. Once I'm happy with the composition I use a blow torch to remove any air bubbles which have formed, I then leave it to dry for 24 hours. I will repeat this process if I want more than 1 layer.
Who do you most admire artistically?
I am constantly scrolling through Instagram admiring artists of all genres. HoweverI am a big fan of Abstract Expressionists Paul Jenkins and Bassmi Ibrahim, they create veils of rich colour and form by blending fluid paint. I also love Paul Bennett's atmospheric abstract landscape work which is beautiful.
Describe a situation that inspired you.
I did a work placement with a local artist in Shrewsbury. I was about 15 but I spent a day a week for 6 weeks painting alongside him. I was able to gain an insight into how you can be a professional artist, how to get ideas of what paint and working in that environment, it was very inspirational and it definitely planted a seed.
What memorable responses have you had to your work?
A lovely lady once said to me that my landscape work had a Turner-esque quality, a comparison I'm more than happy with! I've also been told my work has a calming effect.
Name something you love, and why.
Snowboarding! There is nothing better than being out in the fresh air feeling energetic and healthy on top of snowy mountains surrounded by amazing scenery with my family, it makes me feel very lucky.
What is your dream project?
At University I specialised in textiles. I would love to collaborate with an interior design company like Designers Guild and create a range of prints for home furnishings inspired by my work.
Favourite or most inspirational space?
It would have to be Laos, me and my husband travelled the road from Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang on motorbike which takes you up over the mountains. At the highest point we stopped at a viewpoint, we were presented with lush green mountains and misty valleys for as far as the eye should see, it was stunning and very memorable.
What's the best piece of advice you've been given?
Not so much advice but a lot of encouragement at school and university from teachers and this has definitely made me pursue my art.
