Statement

My work is the result of a detailed observation and enquiry into the world around me. From an understanding of the balance and flow within nature I am exploring our changing relationship with the natural world and the subtle connections that exist between our inner selves and the outer physical landscape. My work sifts information from archeological knowledge, cultural facts and myths with practical traditional skills. I am interested in making work which explores the balance between the intellectual and the physical.

’From the fine spun fragility of ephemeral grasses seemingly blown together by the wind to the formal deliberation of peat layers applied to a wall installation with bar code precision, Caroline Dear’s exceptional work creates imaginative spaces for connection and contemplation of the natural world and our place within it.’ from – ‘Time to observe’ article by Georgina Coburn

Bio

I studied botany in Dublin before qualifying as an architect. I worked as an architect and landscape architect in Dublin, Utrecht (The Nederlands), Oslo, London and Paris before moving to the Isle of Skye to work in 1986. I have developed my artistic practice since then; receiving awards including from Creative Scotland, Royal Scottish Academy and Hi-arts, doing invited residencies in Finland, Norway, Scotland and Canada amongst others, working with artistic commissions including for Alec Finlay, Hanna Tuulikki, ATLAS arts and Timespan, exhibiting work including in Canada, Norway, Finland, Scotland, Wales and England. I speak French fluently and have been learning Gaelic. I also have a Certificate in Field Botany from the Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh.

Caroline Dear CV
My studio is open by appointment. Please contact me by email to arrange a mutually suitable time to visit.

I welcome bespoke commissions; these can be large or small; making work to respond to a particular space or a particular occasion. Past commissions include bespoke woven wall works for domestic interiors, woven stones, handfasting ropes, sculptural seating for a large garden and photography. Please contact me to discuss any ideas you may have. Some examples are shown below.

I teach workshops and run guided walks; these are to give people a fresh insight into experiencing the landscape, particular plants and specific skills. if you are interested in organising an event please email me or to find out about any upcoming events please see my news page.