Shining Light Within the Storm: An Artist’s Journey Through Expressionism
In a world that can often feel chaotic and overwhelming, art has the power to offer moments of beauty, clarity, and hope. As an artist, I find that creating is not just about making something visually captivating—it’s about expressing the inner world of emotions and thoughts. I create expressionist, textured acrylic paintings that bring my experiences and feelings into tangible form. My work is a balance between exploring the storm of life and finding the light that shines through, offering a sense of hope in a turbulent world.
Creating Art from Present Moments and Inner Worlds
My creative process is deeply tied to the present moment. I’m often inspired by snippets of conversations I overhear, things I’m interested in, or emotional landscapes that feel current. I rarely dwell on the past in my work; instead, I channel the thoughts and emotions of the moment. Occasionally, I do imagine the future, painting what I hope my studio space will one day look like, but most of my art is a reflection of what’s happening right now.
This connection to the present influences the narrative of my pieces. My paintings often embody the rawness of now—whether it’s exploring identity, grappling with the feeling of disillusionment, or processing the complex emotions of being neurodivergent in a world that often feels overwhelming. My art serves as both a mirror and an escape from the chaos I experience.
The Stories Behind My Work: Light in the Storm
I have several pieces that perfectly encapsulate the idea of “light within the storm.” One is a dark, underwater world where the central figure is illuminated by a firelight source, created with transparent spray paint. The figure pulls off a mask, revealing warped faces—this visual represents the masking that so often comes with autism, the struggle of hiding one’s true self. The light breaking through the darkness in this painting speaks to the liberation of removing that mask.
I own my own intensity by Artist Chris Shopland
Another piece features an intense portrait on fire, which reacts to UV light, adding an element of surprise and intensity. This burning figure is almost a representation of feeling intensely alive in the face of struggle. In contrast, I’ve created a series of textured wolf paintings that are much brighter and filled with abstract backgrounds. The wolf, a symbol of independence, stands alone, yet there’s a hope that one day it will find its new pack—its community. These wolves, like myself, are journeying through life, sometimes alone but always searching for a sense of belonging.
Embracing Texture: My Own Artistic Language
While I hadn’t consciously thought of it this way, texture in my paintings can indeed be seen as a metaphor for the layered nature of human experience. Life is complex and multi-faceted, and texture in art allows me to express that. However, for me, texture isn’t always about symbolism; it’s about technique. I admire Van Gogh, who was often criticized for his thick, impasto brushstrokes. Like him, I enjoy playing with texture—particularly using a dry brush over a textured surface, where the paint skips over the ridges, creating interesting effects that are both intentional and accidental.
This method allows me to embrace imperfection, which is something I deeply value in my work. The rough, tactile quality of these textures feels real to me, echoing the imperfect and often messy emotions I’m trying to convey.
Art as a Bridge for Connection
At the heart of my art is a desire for connection. I want people to experience my work and feel permission to be fully themselves, free from judgment. I’ve often felt like an outsider, and my art reflects the journey of those who struggle with identity and belonging. I hope my work resonates with people who feel disillusioned by life or who are searching for their tribe, just as I’ve been. Yet, I’m always amazed when my work connects with individuals I never expected to reach. People from all walks of life have purchased my originals—ranging from £150 to £700—and this reminds me that my art isn’t just for the outcasts or the misfits. It’s for anyone who sees something of themselves in the piece, even if their journey is different from mine.
I’m still figuring out the broader message in my art, but I know I explore themes of identity, belonging, and resilience. Through my paintings, I hope to offer a space for reflection—a place where viewers can pause and see themselves in a new light. I want my work to act as a reminder that, no matter how challenging life may feel, there’s always hope, always beauty, and always a path forward.
Final Thoughts: A Journey of Hope and Expression
In a world full of noise and uncertainty, my art stands as an expression of resilience and beauty. I may favour solitude and prefer the quiet of my own surroundings, but through my work, I aim to connect deeply with others. My art is a reminder to myself—and hopefully to others—that there is light to be found within the storm, that we are never truly alone in our struggles. My journey is ongoing, but through every painting, I am learning to embrace the chaos, to find hope in the most unexpected places, and to shine a light that others can follow.
