UCLan's Turner Prize-winning lecturer paints cover of Vogue

The acclaimed University of Central Lancashire lecturer was one of 14 of the country’s top artists and photographers commissioned by British Vogue, editor-in-chief Edward Enninful to create special covers for the August issue.

They were asked to present striking images of UK landscapes they hold dear. Lubaina, who teaches contemporary art at UCLan, said the task was quite a challenge and told the magazine: “It’s such an unusual task for me, because I never really engage with the rural in my work,”

The 66 -year-old who moved to Preston 35-years ago, added: “I’m a city person, and I’ve found that the countryside is almost haunted for me.

“It’s like another world that I never visit on my own, although I will sometimes go on trips with friends.

“ During lockdown, though, I’ve engaged with nature more than ever before. It’s been dry in Lancashire for three months – almost more of a shock for us than the virus itself.

“ I finally had the opportunity to just watch the spring appear and meander through the nature reserves near my house.”

Her cover painting is intended to show the “ haunted” beauty of the English countryside, through the eyes of someone who loves colour.

Lubaina said: “What I tried to paint here is my love for the immense beauty of the region, including the Lake District – while still conveying a feeling of not quite belonging through the bit of African cloth at the bottom of the work.

“The finished piece is actually the view from my studio at home, which overlooks the River Ribble and the park beyond.”