Having spent most of her life living at the tip of the Wirral peninsula, a stone’s throw from the shifting sands of Hoylake beach, Marianthi’s artwork is inspired by the transient beauty of the coast.

Working out at the tideline and then back in the studio, she combines photographic techniques with mixed media processes to visually interpret cycles of ebb and flow.

“Most days, as I have done for years, I walk the sands of the Dee Estuary and have become familiar with its tidal patterns, observing the frequent changes in this dynamic environment. Our shore is in a constant state of flux. Temporary lines and textures are created by wave and wind; dunes and foreshore are re-sculpted twice daily. My work is an attempt to mark some of those moments in time”

Using the cyanotype process, an early photographic printing technique, light-sensitive papers are exposed to the elements out on the Estuary sands and at Hilbre Island. Waves and wind, sunlight and sand all leave their imprint, the tiniest of details permanently etched upon the papers. Each print is the result of a unique set of conditions at one particular point in time – a fleeting representation of an ever-changing landscape.  Back in the studio, pieces are selectively embellished with acrylic, fibres, gold leaf or wax.

Marianthi exhibits her work regularly in solo and group shows across the UK, and is currently represented by galleries in London and Scotland.  Closer to home, a selection of her limited edition photographic prints can be purchased at Blue Moon Framing & Gallery in Heswall. Original mixed media artworks are currently only available via her website.

For the past 10 years Marianthi has taken part in the popular Wirral Open Studio Tour, joining the many artists across the peninsula who open their studios and workspaces to the public for one weekend each year.  After the cancellation of the 2020 event due to the pandemic, she is looking forward to welcoming visitors back into her home studio for this year’s Tour on 11^th/12^th September 2021.

www.marianthilainas.com