My work looks at the interplay between organic form and mathematical language – exploring the idea that geometry and pattern can be metaphors for the visual world and one’s experience of it.

I see Galileo’s remark that ‘The book (of nature) is written in mathematical language...’ as a true statement, offering endless possibilities of explanation in visual terms. These magical complex systems are reflected and replicated in hedgerows or winter branches or flower structures.

I have used Islamic pattern particularly to explore these ideas of metaphor and correspondence. I am interested that it is possible, from the simplest geometry, of circles, squares and triangles, a multitude of complex worlds can mutate. The forms which arise are untethered to any cultural aspect and are free to become useful components in each painting or drawing.

Within each work, geometry and pattern are hopefully at play with other painting traditions.

Susanna Lisle September 2021