A Sandbach artist has just appeared on the popular Sky TV series, Landscape Artist of the Year - a fine art competition and search to find the UK's next great landscape artist.

Abz Heywood (23), of Elworth, creates semi-abstract landscapes and seascapes using a combination of acrylic and stitch and communicates her interpretations through layering materials on canvas.

She has already exhibited her work in a number of galleries in London, Devon and the Canary Islands, as well as in North Wales – where the stunning landscape of Abersoch and across the Llyn Peninsula is inspiration for many of her works and commissions.

The Landscape Artist of the Year episode in which Abz appears was filmed at the Eden Project last summer, with its famous biomes and Outdoor Gardens providing the backdrop and inspiration for her and the other competitors to produce their masterpieces. It aired on February 2nd but is available on catch up TV.

Abz said: "I applied for the show last April and filming took place in July. The experience pushed me outside my comfort zone, but I loved every minute and learned a lot from it. The judges complimented me on the way in which I captured light, which was very flattering and made taking part in the show even more special.

"I've always been inspired by light and texture - particularly within the sky, as this depicts the mood and atmosphere of a painting - so for my interpretation of it to be noticed and commended by the show judges on the day was really flattering.

"I was absolutely delighted with their feedback, despite not making it through to the next round. Competition was really tough. There was some fabulous talent there.

"I'll never forget taking part in the show. It was - and still is - a real reminder to keep doing what you love and to always be true to yourself. I'm literally following my dreams."

advertisement

Abz' inspiration is abstracted from places she visits, capturing moments by phone and using these images later on in her studio to transform a digital memory into a piece of art.

Her practice involves the exploration of mark making which creates dynamic and energetic surfaces and focuses on capturing spirit without the clinical detail of a photograph.

She previously studied Art and Design at Warrington and Vale Royal College in Northwich and was also a pupil at Sandbach High School.

Sky Art's Landscape Artist of the Year is presented by actor Stephen Mangan and veteran broadcaster Joan Bakewell. Its renowned judges are independent curator Kathleen Soriano, art historian Kate Bryan and artist Tai Shan Schierenberg.

The winner of the show will receive the prize of a £10,000 commission for a major British institution.

You can follow Abz her on Instagram @abzheywoodartist