The evolution of an artist’s work often mirrors their personal growth and experiences. CaitlinFlood-Molyneux, an emerging Welsh artist whose journey began with an initial interest in landscapes, both urban and rural, and then collage during their formal studies, has transitioned to a more painterly approach in the years since graduating. A shift that has been both gradual and transformative. Their journey through exhibitions, personal challenges, and new artistic narratives offers a compelling look into the life of an artist constantly evolving and redefining their creative expression.
Flood-Molyneux’s introduction and early passion for art was a gift from their late mother, who was always enthusiastic about art and creativity. During an arts degree, the artist’s work slowly moved from graphics to collage, indeed semblances of the former can still be recognised in their work. Their solo show in London in 2023, was met with huge support by both collectors and contemporaries and primarily featured collage-based work with several painterly pieces, indicating that a shift was beginning. This exhibition marked a pivotal moment in their career and furthered the belief that one does not need to reside in London to find success.
Since then, Flood-Molyneux’s trajectory has been upward and far-reaching. They have exhibited at Christie’s and had work sold at Sotheby’s with SOTA Marketplace. They were also a Forbes Under 30 candidate and had the opportunity to speak on a panel in Botswana; something the artist admits is not something they thought was on the cards just a few years ago. Their work has evolved significantly, as the artist works through various aspects of their life. This development, as Caitlin explains, is rooted in their desire to convey a new narrative and approach to their art. Reflecting on this transition, Caitlin notes, “I wanted to say something different within the work and I wanted to talk about something different in my life.
This is the way I’m telling my story; I can’t do that with collage anymore.” The gradual shift from collage to painting is especially evident in their current travelling exhibition, ‘Going Away In Order To Return,’ where the focus has increasingly been on more open and honest, with an entirely canvas-based selection.
Caitlin’s newfound artistic freedom has allowed them to delve deeper into symbolism and personal introspection. They describe their process as building characters and stories from moments in their life, starting with words and language to help develop their visual language.
This biographical approach to art has enabled Caitlin to channel a range of emotions and experiences, from depression and loss to love and resilience.
The themes in Caitlin’s new body of work are complex, reflecting the highs and lows of their lives. “My work has always been an outlet for me to process things, to cope with things. Now, it is more about channelling all aspects of my life into the work,” they explain. This integrated approach has led to a body of work that feels continuous, with no definitive end, mirroring the ongoing journey of their life.
Caitlin’s latest project, “Going Away in Order to Return,” is a series of three exhibitions travelling to various locations significant to them. This project aims to bring their work back to Wales, making it more accessible and reconnecting with their roots. Caitlin emphasizes the importance of making art accessible, stating,
“Art is for everyone. I wanted to make sure that I’m bringing it back”
The exhibitions reflect Caitlin’s connection to Wales, with paintings that depict places she grew up in, such as the council estate from their childhood. This blend of personal history and artistic expression creates a rich tapestry of memories and emotions, which is both personal and relatable. The travelling nature of the exhibition can be understood as being part of the work itself. Caitlin’s work remains largely surreal, but it is infused with elements that evoke a sense of place and time, creating dreamscapes that piece together various moments from their life.
As Caitlin continues to explore new themes and methods, they remain committed to challenging themselves and their art.
“I want to get the work out there, to be seen by more people. The most important bit is that the work started in Wales and got to be seen in Wales, and now it is about the legacy of it. Where will it go next?”
Caitlin muses.
Their journey is a testament to the transformative power of art and the importance of continually pushing creative boundaries. As Caitlin prepares for their upcoming exhibitions in Porth and Cardiff, they look forward to engaging with new audiences and continuing to explore the rich interplay between their life experiences and artistic expression. Caitlin’swork is a vivid, evolving narrative that captures the essence of their life and experiences. It is a journey marked by personal growth, artistic exploration, and a deep connection to their roots. As they move forward, Flood-Molyneux’s art promises to remain a powerful medium for storytelling, introspection, and connection.
About the artist
Caitlin Flood-Molyneux is a contemporary Welsh Artist based in South Wales. Their artistic practice investigates the relationship between pop culture imagery and the way in which we attach emotion and memory to images using mixed media techniques to express subjective experiences of hardship. Flood-Molyneux has exhibited widely across the UK and internationally and has recently shown work at Christie’s and Sotheby’s Auction House in London. In 2024 they were shortlisted for the prestigious Forbes 30 and was a delegate at the conference in Botswana. Flood-Molyneux’s work is both deeply personal and universal, as it charts key moments of their life; a private and enigmatic visual story with which Flood-Molyneux invites the viewer to forge their own connection. @floodmolyneuxart
