‘SKY GLOW’
ARTIST: Helen Rowland
Helen is an abstract landscape painter based in Leven, close to Hornsea. Her paintings are a sensory reaction to the landscape or sea. Joyous with strong use of colour and expressive brush marks, Helen’s paintings celebrate the ever-changing seas and skies of the east coast, which are her constant source of inspiration.
“In the form of a starfish, I'd like to share my connection to the sea and celebrate our coastline. Having lived in the area for most of my life, I am aware of the fragility of our coast and think that through the language of art and symbol of the starfish, we can remind viewers of their connection to the sea.
Painting on large canvases, 1 metre and over, is my favourite way of working. My brush marks can be expressive and flow without restriction. The scale of the starfish appeals to me. My design is an abstract seascape, celebrating the moments of sunrise on the beach at Hornsea. Layers of saturated paint, expressive brush marks and areas of calm have been included in the design.
I’m interested by the sea and sky. Living near the coast, it’s important for me to be by the sea. I’m particularly drawn at the start and end of the day, when the changing colour and light of the sky are reflected back off the water. Walking on the beach in Hornsea at sunrise is a reset, an energising and spiritual experience full of positive energy, that I want to share with residents and visitors to the Starfish trail.”
Starfish Sculpture Sponsor
Hornsea Village
As a proud supporter of local arts and culture, Hornsea Village is excited to play a role in bringing this project to life. Their sponsorship will help fund the creation of a unique starfish sculpture that will be designed by a regional artist and placed along the trail for all to enjoy.
“Hornsea Village is proud to be a sponsor of the Starfish Galaxy Project, an exciting and creative public art trail that celebrates the beauty of our coastline while bringing together businesses, artists, and the wider community.
As a longstanding part of Hornsea’s commercial and cultural landscape, we are passionate about supporting initiatives that drive footfall, enhance local engagement, and create vibrant experiences for both residents and visitors. The Starfish Galaxy Trail is a natural extension of our commitment to enriching the town centre environment and encouraging discovery of the unique retail, leisure, and hospitality offer that Hornsea has to offer.
We are delighted to have selected Helen Rowland as the artist to bring our starfish sculpture to life. Helen’s work is rooted in the landscapes and seascapes of East Yorkshire, and her bold, expressive style beautifully captures the spirit of our coastal setting. A painter with deep ties to the area, Helen’s vision for the piece resonated with our desire to connect the Village to its surroundings in a meaningful and visually striking way.
Helen’s design embodies the peaceful beauty and fragile power of the coastline we all cherish. Through her starfish sculpture, we aim to spark reflection, connection, and joy for those visiting the trail and exploring all that Hornsea has to offer.”
LOCATION
Hornsea Village
Rolston Road, Hornsea HU18 1UT
