As the British weather takes a decided turn, many of us will find our thoughts turning to sunnier climes – exotic palm-fringed beaches, majestic sun-dappled Oriental architecture, and lush, verdant landscapes.

Providing a little taste of that here in Watford, Bushey artist Petra Geggie is exhibiting a selection of her works at Watford Grammar School for Girls, entitled Foliage, Foliate Folio – Media and Message.

Travel has been a major source of inspiration for Petra, and she found enjoyment in finding the unexpected and making connections between cultures, buildings and landscapes.

“Travel has stimulated my senses,“ says Petra.

“My eyes are wide open to visual stimuli and my head reflects on the life and custom or mythology of the location.“

Her abstract work is vibrant in colour and strong in form. She uses acrylic mixed media, where marks and layers allow the history of the painting process to be active on the surface.

Two aspects of Petra’s work are on show – one where the process of presenting the image is prevalent, and the other where the message and context is more dominant.

Petra’s Indian paintings were inspired by her visits there and her thoughts on what she experienced. Basunti is a spot north-east of Amritsar, in view of the Himalayas and surrounded by water and varied types of landscapes.

The artist found the village banyan tree hauntingly inspirational, and imagery and colour are strong features of the collection, as are underlying associations of myth and tradition.

Completed works are supported by visual preparatory work, sketches, sketch books and photogaphs that allow greater access to the process of creating the works and reveal hidden clues.

“My joy is in making paintings that reflect my love of place,“ says Petra, “of finding the unexpected and making connections during the process of creating so that the canvas itself has its own history.“

  • The Visual Arts Centre, Watford Grammar School for Girls, Lady’s Close, Watford until October 23, Monday to Thursday 4pm to 8pm. Details: 01923 447658, wggs-artscollege.ik.org