Untouched Weekly Review we 1 Jan 2026

Tim Ravenscroft – Symmetrical Wooden Panels with Metal Fixings

Description
A monochrome abstract showing two wooden panels divided by a central seam, each punctuated by a circular metal fixing, emphasising symmetry, texture and repetition.

Good Points
• Strong bilateral symmetry gives the image immediate impact and clarity
• The pairing of circular metal forms against linear wood grain works very well visually
• Monochrome treatment highlights texture and tonal differences effectively
• Clean, uncluttered framing keeps the composition focused and deliberate

Areas to Improve
• The central vertical gap is visually dominant; slight tonal control could reduce its pull
• Very small alignment differences become noticeable in symmetrical images—worth checking precision
• Consider whether a slightly tighter crop would strengthen the graphic quality further

Tim Ravenscroft – Screen and Shadow Abstraction

Description
A high-contrast monochrome abstract where a fine grid or screen overlays a softer underlying scene, creating layered patterns of line, tone and shadow.

Good Points
• Strong graphic impact from the dense horizontal and vertical line structure
• Effective use of contrast, with lighter upper tones transitioning into darker areas below
• The interaction between the rigid grid and the softer shadowed forms adds visual tension
• Monochrome treatment suits the subject, emphasising pattern and rhythm

Areas to Improve
• The brightest central area draws the eye quickly; subtle tonal moderation could improve balance
• The underlying subject remains ambiguous, which may divide viewers—either lean into this fully or hint slightly more
• Consider whether a small crop from the bottom could reduce visual weight and tighten the composition

Tim Ravenscroft – Radial Wooden Structure

Description
A monochrome abstract image centred on a circular wooden hub with radiating arms, creating a strong sense of symmetry and balance against a softly textured background.

Good Points
• Excellent use of symmetry, with the central circle acting as a strong visual anchor
• The repetition of lines radiating outward creates rhythm and structural clarity
• Monochrome treatment suits the subject well, emphasising form, grain and texture
• Subtle background tones prevent distraction and help the structure stand out

Areas to Improve
• The central fixing draws the eye very strongly; slight tonal control could soften its dominance
• A touch more separation between the wooden arms and background might enhance depth
• Consider whether perfect symmetry is the strongest choice, or if a slight shift could introduce tension

Tim Ravenscroft – Geometric Abstract (Chrome Rail and Tile)

Description
A monochrome abstract focusing on the intersection of a chrome towel rail against a tiled wall, emphasising line, reflection and surface texture.

Good Points
• Strong graphic composition built from clean verticals and horizontals
• Effective use of reflection and shadow to add depth and complexity
• The contrast between polished chrome and matte tile works very well in monochrome
• Tight framing keeps the image purposeful and controlled

Areas to Improve
• Bright highlights on the chrome draw the eye quickly; very subtle highlight control could improve balance
• The left-hand edge feels visually heavier than the right — a slight crop or tonal adjustment might refine the balance
• Consider whether reducing background texture slightly would allow the structure to dominate more clearly

Patricia Buckland – Frosty Sunrise Over Fields

Description
A tranquil winter scene showing frost-covered grass and fields under a soft sunrise, with trees silhouetted against mist and warm early light.

Good Points
• Strong sense of atmosphere created by the mist and low winter sun
• Pleasing colour gradient in the sky, shifting gently from warm to cool tones
• Natural framing from the trees helps anchor the scene
• The frost adds texture and reinforces the early-morning mood

Areas to Improve
• The foreground path and hard edges at the bottom of the frame slightly weaken the immersion; a tighter crop could strengthen the composition
• The central area lacks a clear focal point once the eye moves past the sun
• Consider a lower shooting position or repositioning to simplify foreground elements

Vic Steadman – Frosty Field with Framing Trees

Description
A monochrome winter landscape showing a frost-covered field viewed through overhanging and side-framing trees, with a soft, misty distance creating a quiet, open centre.

Good Points
• Strong natural framing from the trees gives the image structure and containment
• The open central space contrasts nicely with the denser foreground and edges
• Frost and mist combine to create a calm, subdued winter atmosphere
• Good sense of depth, with foreground texture leading the eye into the distance

Areas to Improve
• The right-hand edge (fence and path) competes slightly with the central opening and draws the eye outward
• The top branches are visually busy; a small crop from the top could simplify the frame
• The tonal range is very even—introducing a little more separation between foreground and mid-ground might add clarity