About me
I am an artist based in Leeds, West Yorkshire. Brought up in Glossop in the northern Peak District in Derbyshire, I began painting and drawing at a very early age and was a regular entrant to the Derbyshire Open Art Exhibition.
My main focus these days is on figurative subjects with dark, magical and often erotic interpretations. I have a fascination for strong, mythical women as well as nature - I try to bring these disparate subjects together into pieces that portray strength and beauty. Head on over to the art shop to browse my ever growing portfolio of mystical, whimsical figurative paintings, featuring fantastical creatures and surreal surroundings. I've always had an interest in mythological and fantasy imagery. In this collection, my love of flora and fauna meets my interest in the human body with extra dashes of magic.
Working on commission for most of my life as an artist has allowed me to explore different media, and these days I usually choose to work in acrylic, gouache, ink and graphite pencils. I find that acrylic gives me that freedown to build up the paint like oils, thin it down to create watercolour-like washes, as well as creating both vibrant and more muted pieces. Gouache adds more texture to my paintings and more depth to water scenes. Ink is fantastic for colour pops and small details. When it comes to graphite, I use the softest pencils I can get my hands on to really emphasise those dark shadows.
My Art Background
I have a working class background, which I feel adds to my need to appeal to people from all walks of life. While many consider art to be highbrow, I strive to create a safe space for art enthusiasts from all backgrounds; a place where every question is valid and fine art is affordable. I thoroughly believe that art should not be reserved for the ultra rich - everyone who has a genuine appreciation of art deserves the chance to decorate their homes with it. Art should not be bought as a status symbol to be locked away in a case or paraded around, but as something to be looked upon and appreciated often. With that in mind, I will always try to keep my prices as low as possible.
Art Commissions Closed
Commissions were closed in early 2020 to allow me to concentrate on my passion. After spending 20 years working for clients, I am now taking the time to create the portfolio I have always wanted to. While this may be disappointing, I hope that you are as excited about my upcoming work as I am and I'm looking forward to taking you on this journey with me.
Where Can You See My Artwork
While I am not exhibiting physically at the moment, you are also able to purchase originals, prints and various merchandise on other channels.
Saatchi
See my work amongst other artists' at Saatchi.
Skills
Fine Arts, Graphic Design, Illustration, Painting