Phoebe Paints Rocks: Creative geologist and adventurer

When on PhD fieldwork on the Pembrokeshire coast in SW Wales in 2021, in my breaks I would paint the view of the rocks and sea with watercolours. I noticed that when painting I was making useful geological recordings and interpretations, which I included in my research. I bought a sketchbook and started to paint whenever I was outside, both on fieldwork and adventurers into the hills hiking and climbing. By allowing me to take the time to properly look at the changing landscape, painting became a process that increased my understanding of geology, the world, and my place within both.

Through finding my creative voice as an artist, I also found my voice both as a scientist and a person. It became easier to communicate my research, helping with writing, discussions with colleagues and drawing figures. My research moved to explore the creative side of geology, the uncertainty in how we observe and interpret faults in mountain building areas, and the way geologists communicate their findings through drawings and illustrations. I am interested in connection and perspective of landscapes across time. As a qualified Mountain Leader I love sharing the outdoors with others, to share skills and stories.

Sharing my work with others on social media has led to lots of opportunities including exhibitions and events with the Scottish Mountaineering Press, the Scottish Geology Trust, North East Open Studies, Fort William Mountain Festival and Artist-in-Residence for the Dundee Mountain Film Festival. I find people are interested in my connection to the landscape, my painting process and how they can connect better with the landscapes they love and want to protect.