60 Degrees North is the latest Oxmarket exhibition for Nicola Rose

“This is my third solo exhibition at the Oxmarket. I have recently moved to Shetland and am working as an artist full time. Over the last months I have been exploring Eshaness, an area of volcanic rock and red granite, whose name translated from the Norse means Headland of Volcanic Rock.

“The dramatic cliffs, seas, weather and light here have inspired this work. I spent months drawing and then worked in the landscape with oils on board.

“The larger canvases are then developed in my studio which looks out to the sea. I can follow the sun as it rises over distant cliffs, makes its way across the sky and sinks into the Atlantic Ocean to the west.

“This show includes three moon paintings. Since moving here I have witnessed the rising of three super moons. All were different, and each I responded to directly from this place of extreme drama and wild beauty. I hope people will see the development in my work now that I am living and painting in a place which immediately inspires and drives my creative process.”

Nicola added: “Having studied illustration at the Kent Institute (Maidstone College of Art) until 1987 I then attended Brighton Polytechnic where I studied for the MA in Fine Art Printmaking. I have since pursued a career as a painter. My love of travel has always influenced and guided my creativity. In my youth I took off with my backpack to India, the Middle East, South Africa, Scandinavia, New Zealand and Iceland, always with an eye to the landscape, weather and adventure.

“On return I would put together exhibitions. A particular highlight was being asked to respond to and exhibit in three separate cathedrals with my paintings of ancient religious buildings.”