Water is so very much like the human emotion, it is rarely static, and neither are we.
It shifts with the atmosphere around it – reflecting life, engulfing shadows, turning from serene stillness to restless turbulence in a single moment.
With her ‘Fluid Emotions’ exhibition, Toni explores the quiet parallel between water in our landscape and the complexity of the human emotion. Through a series of textured and atmospheric acrylic paintings, this collection uses the fluid layering of paint to capture moments where the physical world mirrors our inner state.
Deep muted blues and misty horizons speak to solitude and introspection, while vibrant refractions of light and rhythmic tides captures hope and possibility. Acrylic paint – with its ability to build swift, translucent washes alongside dense impasto – allows these waterscapes to feel alive, capturing the impression of a moment before it is lost.
Whilst Toni is inspired by different emotions when creating each piece, these paintings invite you to pause and project your own story onto the canvas. They are a place to sit with the undercurrents of your thoughts, to feel the weight and light of the present, and to recognise that like water our emotions are constantly moving, shaping and seeking clarity.
FREE Meet the artist drop-ins (10am-2pm)
Saturdays 5th and 26th September
Wednesdays 9th, 16th and 23rd September
Toni Gates
About The Artist
Based in Hertfordshire, Toni creates from her home studio, blending the worlds of realism and atmospheric abstraction. Her paintings often focus on capturing light and movement, whether in land and seascapes or in the human form.
Each piece is a unique journey, some meticulously planned and others unfolding intuitively to reflect her connection with the subject. Toni’s work is often influenced and inspired by the depth of human emotions – the struggles people face and the journey through them.
This connection to human experience is mirrored in the land and waterscape paintings, where the uplifting and powerful essence of nature reflects both the depth of emotion and the joy of overcoming life’s challenges.
About Herts Open Studios
For three weeks only, artists open their doors to the public, offering a rare opportunity to see where and how art is made. From painting and printmaking to ceramics, jewellery, textiles and more, you’ll find an inspiring array of work in studios, homes, galleries and pop-up venues.
Whether you’re an art lover, a curious visitor, or simply looking for something different to do, Open Studios is a chance to:
Meet local artists and hear the stories behind their work
Watch demonstrations and see creative processes in action
Buy original artwork directly from the maker
Explore new places across Hertfordshire
Find out more here