About Chris Watts
Factory study - Fluorescent paint on photographs 1975
Westway urban landscape project - Collage 1977
Context
Studying fine art in London I became interested in human interaction with artificial environments. I explored the subject through drawing, painting, writing, installation, performance and film.
The theme continued in my postgraduate studies with a public art project to evoke the experience of landscape around the Westway elevated dual carriageway in London W14.
Discussion with locals about the project and doubts about a future in contemporary art prompted reappraisal of my aspirations.
I looked for more direct involvement with environmental issues and practice by working for an environmental pressure group and then a New Town Development Corporation whilst studying town planning.