Sam Harrison

I make bold and quirky abstract paintings that interpret the landscape through strong shapes, lines and collage.

Living in Ulverston, I feel closely connected to the Cumbrian coastline, with its nautical and industrial heritage. I am drawn to the interplay of modern technology and ancient landscape, shaped by my experience as an engineer working on fast jets and submarines.

My process begins outside with observation. Sketches and photographs record details of my response to the scene —infrastructure, patterns, weathered surfaces — that stay within me and re-emerge as fragments throughout the work. In the studio, I use acrylic, collage, and mixed media, building depth through many layers. Guided by my source material, the composition develops gradually, often finished with oil glazes to give natural luminosity.

Located just off the Furness coast, Piel Island is a hidden gem, known for its 14th-century castle and the Ship Inn, where the landlord is crowned the King of Piel. In good weather, a small ferry carries up to 12 passengers across from Roa Island — just wave to the ferryman from the lifeboat station! The paintings in this exhibition began during several summer days spent sketching the castle and its surroundings from the island’s 360-degree beach. They aim to capture the sense of surprise and joy I always feel on day trips to Piel.