Forests, flora & fauna: Lisa Wright's forestry commission inspired paintings to go on display in London

On show at Coates and Scarry in London from 29 October, the paintings are informed by figurative sculptural works in Wright's outdoor public commission, Future Forest, a collaborative project with Tom Piper MBE, which opened earlier this month in Thetford Forest, marking the Forestry Commission’s centenary year.

The dramatic sculptural installation at Suffolk’s High Lodge features ten life-size figures based on classical motifs and representing custodians of the past looking over our forests. The installation reflects the vital role that trees and woodlands play in protecting our natural environment and the next generation’s role as guardians of our forests.

The works in Infinite Forest are a continuation of what Wright refers to as her "inner landscape" series; figurative works that embody natural landscapes, encompassing fauna, trees, sky. They draw our attention back to nature and remind us of our responsibility to protect Earth’s ecosystem.

"Wright is recognised for her distinctive figurative paintings that explore the physical and emotional state of childhood and adolescence," says the gallery. "Her work is informed by subtle references to historical painting. Abstract sensibilities are upheld by masterly draughtsmanship and painterly use of colour, liberal and seductive in its application and brushwork, enhancing the emotional impact of her often large scale works."

Since completing her post-graduate studies at the Royal Academy Schools London in 1992, Lisa Wright’s paintings have been exhibited nationally and internationally with solo presentations in London, New York, Hong Kong, Basel and Miami. Notable awards include The NOA Prize, The Hunting Art Prize and the 2013 Threadneedle Prize. In 2012, Wright was invited to be an Academician of The Royal West of England Academy.