Unbelonging – Fish Out of Water

Naomi is delighted to have ‘Unbelonging – Fish Out of Water’ selected for the Royal Ulster Academy’s Annual Exhibition in Belfast which runs from 18th October until 4th January.

This painting began as a reflection on the experience of feeling out of place. Set against a restrained backdrop, the isolation of the fish is emphasised by the surrounding light and empty space, drawing focus to their separation from the world to which they belong.

Although the work explores themes of displacement and unbelonging, it is not intended to be entirely melancholic. Removed from their usual context, the fish become the focal point of the composition, suggesting that there can be a quiet strength in being different and an unexpected beauty in standing apart.