Marlene Lees’ distinctively loose brushstrokes and bold colour combinations serve as the rhythmic heartbeat of her paintings. Figures and flowers come to life through the canvas and transcend mere representation as beautiful, open brushstrokes breathe vitality into the subject. On large scale canvases, Lees’ bold and intentional strokes invite unrecognisable distortion upon closer viewing, a deliberate departure from the confines of realism. The canvas becomes a playground for complex details, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the intricate dance of colours and forms.

Lees' artistic exploration extends to the very essence of natural forms, drawing parallels between the linseed oil in the oil paint and the linen canvas. In her creative process, the paint emerges organically from the exposed canvas, mirroring the way a flower blossoms from the soil. This symbiotic relationship between medium and surface adds a layer of depth to Lees' work, creating a profound connection between the material and the subject.

Nature, with its intricate beauty and inherent contrasts, serves as a powerful muse for Lees. Her paintings, like the natural world, are simultaneously beautiful as they are striking. Through bold and confronting colour combinations, Lees captures the pulsating vibrancy of life. Colour becomes a transformative tool, pushing the boundaries of visual perception and inviting viewers to delve into the emotional impact of what they see.

Lees' art transcends the canvas, creating a dynamic interplay between form, colour, and emotion. Her work not only reflects the beauty of the visible world but also challenges viewers to explore the unseen, making each painting a captivating journey into the realm of perception.

Bouquet sketch 100x120cm. Charcoal on paper. 2023

Bouquet 100x120cm. Oil on linen canvas. 2023

In ‘Bouquet’ Marlene Lees paints flowers, the symbol of sentiment. A complex mix of colour and tone including pure reds and blues, paint the Roses perfumed words.

The colour choices and their application are purposeful as the silky richness of the red, pink and white roses are brought forward by deep greens. Cool blue base notes found in the dark green shades, bleed out into the background. The flowers are at once pushed forwards as they are abstracted into the edges of the canvas, evoking the sense of growth, space and time. The flower bouquet is an explosion and Lees’ painting captures their fleeting moment of life.