Title: Earth Patterns 1 Technique: Art Board 14” by 18” Mediums: Hand-ground soils, wood ash and natural wood resin medium Year: 2021 Description: Mountains, waves, rice-paddies and countless forms in nature mimic these flowing natural patterns. Dominated by yellow chromes and red ochres, the vibrant colours are the natural expression of the local countryside. We walk on the soil but we rarely notice it, yet all biodiversity relies on the health of this fragile and easily torn skin. Painted solely with natural earth soils, collected by the artist from his garden and the surrounding villages and countryside in a rural part of Hong Kong, and hand-ground in his home-studio. An organic gardener for over 25 years, David combines his passion for soil, gardening and composting, with art. Using natural soils, art becomes a means to engage with soil from different perspectives and encourage both the artist and observers to heighten their awareness of the beauty and fragility of soils. Wood-resin from Japan is used as an ecological binder. Artist: David St Maur Sheil