Artist Statement
I work from sketches and photographs.
It is not always practical to sit outside and draw a scene.
So sometimes I take a photograph and use the image later for a painting.
When I first started drawing and painting I worked religiously from all my own
sketches done on site.
I would happily sit outside in all weathers and chat away often to complete strangers.
Now as I am older I feel more self concious about drawing outside in a busy area
and I also have to be alot more careful about my safety in remote places.
When I approach a new painting I already have the idea worked out.
Normally I do not experiment whilst painting on canvas.
I can see clearly in my mind how I want the painting to look and all the
colours I wish to achieve.
When I sit down at my easel I have to empty my head of any thoughts that might
drain on my creativity.
I try to feel calm and focused in order to produce a good painting.
Usually I like to paint most days and spend a long time on each painting.
The aim is to try for improvement and perfection in every picture.
I set myself personal goals with my work and am very serious about painting.
Seeing people derive pleasure from my work gives me an enormous boost and this
helps spur me on.
I want my paintings with my use of colour and subject matter, to portray a feeling
of uncomplicated joy.
|