OutPost Arts is proud to present Closer to Nature, a new exhibition by Dumfries based artist Martin Clarkson, featuring a collection of en plein air paintings created across the wild landscapes of the British Isles. Painted entirely on location, the works capture changing light, weather and seasons while celebrating Britain’s ancient woodlands, coastlines, mountains and moorland.

Living and working in Southwest Scotland, Clarkson has dedicated the past several years to painting directly from nature, embracing the tradition of en plein air as a way of observing the landscape with care and attention. His practice is rooted in the belief that spending time outdoors can be both restorative and healing, with each painting serving as a record of lived experience and quiet observation.

Through themes of resilience, hope, renewal and connection, Closer to Nature encourages visitors to slow down, reflect on their own relationship with the natural world and consider the importance of protecting Britain’s remaining wild places. Exhibiting in a healthcare space offers staff, patients and visitors moments of calm and escapism, highlighting the positive role that creativity and nature can play in supporting wellbeing.

“Time spent in nature has the power to restore, inspire and reconnect us with ourselves. Through these paintings, I hope visitors to the hospital’s exhibition space are reminded of the value of our wild landscapes and the importance of making space to slow down, look closely and simply be present.”

– Martin Clarkson