From an early age I naturally gravitated towards drawing portraits. The look of the human face is expressive and able to convey many emotions without saying a word.
I always seek to try and capture the soul and likeness when painting a face.
My early efforts in the 1960s were a bit crude and began with members of my family.
In the 1980s I painted portraits of my wife and daughter and in the 1990s, a portrait of Margaret Thatcher . I sent my image to 10 Downing Street and received a nice reply letter
from the former Priminister, saying I had achieved a likeness.
I was thrilled to know this
The prestigious Newcomers Gallery who had published some of my canal and transport artwork in 2002 and 2004, thought I should pursue portraiture and was one of my strengths as an emerging artist.
It is always a challenge to try and achieve a likeness when creating a portrait painting.
I am sub consciously aware of the Golden Mean rule when proportioning the composition of a facial portrait.
I have received complements regarding likenesses from Roger Scruton, who was a writer and philosopher, saying I was a "Real artist" with the styles I use. I felt complimented.
Also I have heard from Prince Ea in the USA, aka Richard Williams, who is a rapper, spoken word artist and civil rights activist HE said my portrait of him was awesome and made his day.
Well, he certainly made my day.
As an artist I am currently working on more portrait projects as I continue to be inspired by luminaries around the planet.
I am always inspired by listening to musicians, philosophers and environmentalists and what they have to say through their words and music.
