Frances Walker: Travelling On

The origins of this exhibition of works by Frances Walker began in discussions about supporting artists to make new research. It is often assumed that early-career artists need this support most, and indeed this is where much of the financial heft is weighted. Established artists in mid or late career are often overlooked for this backing, the assumption being perhaps that they are able to support themselves. However, support isn’t just about money. It is also about an understanding of the creative process required to undertake new research and to enable this time outside of day-to-day pressures.

Frances’ career, beyond her teaching, has been a constant process of research. We are familiar with her views of coastal Scotland and indeed these are greatly admired and enjoyed in our homes and in many collections, both public and private. These works, and those of further afield, have been made as a result of her constant engagement and study of the topography of the land. 

We are also shown the rapid change of landscape through modern interference. Loss of habitat, pollution and tourism all forcing our natural history to compete, rather than co-exist, with contemporary issues. Frances’ work shows us this and more: to enjoy our precious land and remember its history with a hope that we will carry these histories forward and that these places remain wonderful for our descendants.

It is a great pleasure and honour for the Academy to present these paintings and prints from across Frances’ career. We have been there with her since that early Carnegie Award and throughout her journey since. Now, as Frances approaches her 92nd year, we don’t intend this exhibition to be a retrospective, and indeed we couldn’t possibly do her career any justice in this modest scale. However, the selection hopes to take a glimpse at works where travel and the support of funding (and time), have enabled new research to flourish as part of a lengthy continuum of practice.