‘I’m wearing a groove in myself trying to hail, the arms of the ocean won’t stand still long enough for you to see me.’

Kate Howe, 2021, oil paint and oil pastel on canvas, 250 x 214 cm. Collection: Turner, Painting.

the Sandman

i take the train through time to my studio

i unlock the asylum

or the secret lab

at first i didn't know if I'd be able to get through

or if I did what in the world we would talk about

or why i kept visiting. i had a mild interest

it was the sextant

the mast

the view

our new home

the light in the winter bushes

the islands in the thames

you flowed to me like water

when i cross it on the empty train i feel like i am getting closer to you

are you already on the ship, waiting?

do I have to start the ritual again to find you, or will you be sitting in my studio and get caught putting extra sugar in the tea you've made?

am i late

are you waiting

i'm coming

- Kate Howe