Your basket is currently empty!
Category: Paintings
Untitled (Tree)
Untitled (Tree), 2016-24
Oil and acrylic on board
21×29.7 cmA World Held Within: The Power of Small Paintings
As an artist, I’ve always been drawn to the challenge of capturing a world on a canvas. But lately, I’ve found myself increasingly captivated by the power of miniature landscapes. My latest piece (well almost), is a modest 21×29.7cm creation on board that blends oils and acrylics, is a testament to this fascination.
This particular landscape isn’t just a scene; it’s a feeling. It depicts a solitary tree, its branches reaching towards a vast, cloud-strewn sky, standing resolute in a field of emerald green. While the size may be small, the message is far-reaching.
Finding Strength in Stillness: The lone tree is a metaphor for resilience. It speaks of finding strength in solitude, of weathering storms and anchoring oneself in the face of adversity. The cool blues and greens of the background create a sense of serenity, a reminder that even amidst challenges, there lies a deep well of peace.
Texture and Symbolism: The textured brushstrokes used on the tree are deliberate. They symbolize the bark’s rough resilience, its enduring character etched by time. The pops of white in the clouds represent not just passing storms, but also the potential for new beginnings.
A World Within Reach: Perhaps the greatest power of this miniature landscape lies in its accessibility. Unlike towering museum pieces, this artwork is meant to be held close, to be contemplated in the quiet corners of our lives. It’s a reminder that vastness and beauty can be found not just in expansive vistas, but also in the intimate details of the world around us.
Small Paintings, Big Ideas: Working on a smaller scale allows me to focus on the essence of a scene, to distill a feeling into its purest form. This miniature landscape may be unassuming in size, but it holds within it a universe of meaning – a testament to the power of miniature art.
Glorious Melt
Glorious Melt, 2024
Acrylic on board
21×29.7 cmSunshine and Sunburn? Not Quite My Paradise
Have you ever flipped through travel brochures and dreamt of a tropical escape? Pristine beaches, swaying palms, and the rhythmic lull of the ocean – pure bliss, right? Well, what if that picture-perfect scene sent shivers down your spine instead?
That’s the quirky charm of “Glorious Melt.” The title itself sets up a playful contradiction. Melting isn’t exactly synonymous with glorious, but this piece celebrates the unexpected beauty and impermanence of change.
The scene is a delightful clash of winter and summer. Front and center is a kitsch snowman, sporting a jaunty top hat and a festive scarf, both adorned with drips that foreshadow his inevitable fate. Behind him, a lush palm tree sways in the breeze, its vibrant green fronds a stark contrast to the snowman’s stark white body. The background unfolds in a warm brown beach, lapped by blue waves rolling in from a sky that transitions from a hopeful light blue at the top to a deeper, knowing blue at the horizon.
“Glorious Melt” is more than just a pretty picture; it’s a conversation starter. It invites viewers to smile and contemplate. Is the snowman basking in his final moments of paradise? Do his black button eyes hold a hint of wistfulness? Perhaps the title suggests an acceptance of impermanence, a reminder that even fleeting moments hold a unique kind of beauty, even if they make you shiver a little.
Sunflowers
Sunflowers, 2024
Acrylic on board
21×29.7 cmHey There, Sunflower!
Sunflowers! Those giant, happy faces staring up at the sun are more than just pretty summer blooms. They’ve been around for centuries, gracing gardens and fields with their cheerful presence. But there’s more to these sunshine seekers than meets the eye!
Sun Trackers and Tiny Flower Power: Did you know that a sunflower’s head isn’t actually one giant flower? It’s a bunch of tiny florets working together! And that impressive head, called a capitulum, acts like a mirror reflecting sunlight for the best seed production. Pretty cool, right? Young sunflowers are also super fans of the sun, constantly turning their necks to follow its path across the sky. Talk about dedication!
From Seeds to Sustainability: Sunflowers are superstars in the agricultural world. Their seeds are a tasty treat for us and a vital food source for birds. But that’s not all! Sunflower oil is a popular cooking option, and the stalks can even be used for fuel or building materials. Even the leaves get a second life as compost or mulch. Talk about a zero-waste wonder!
Happiness in Bloom: It’s no surprise that sunflowers are symbolic of joy and optimism. Their bright faces and cheerful aura bring a smile to anyone’s face. They add a pop of color to gardens and make fantastic cut flowers, guaranteed to brighten any room.
Fun Facts, Not Hype: Did you know some sunflowers can grow over 25 feet tall? That’s taller than a two-story house! The biggest sunflower head ever recorded was a whopping 3 feet wide. And guess what? Sunflowers come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and even colors besides the classic sunny yellow!
So next time you see a sunflower, take a closer look. These fascinating plants are a testament to nature’s ingenuity and a reminder to find a little sunshine in your day.
Citizen Zero
Citizen Zero, 2023
NFT
1/1Citizen Zero: A Glitch in the System (My Latest NFT)
“Citizen Zero” isn’t just an NFT – it’s a glitch in the system. This isn’t your typical communist poster boy. Sure, he’s got the steely gaze and the uniform, but there’s a flicker behind his eyes, a hint of a smirk playing on his lips. He’s both soldier and worker, a paradox in a world that demands conformity. The white grid behind him – is it a cage, a control panel, or maybe a window to something beyond? That’s the beauty of this piece – it’s yours to interpret.
Why Citizen Zero? Because sometimes, the designated “hero” needs a closer look. Is blind loyalty a virtue, or a weakness? What happens when the cog in the machine starts to question its purpose? “Citizen Zero” isn’t a condemnation, it’s a conversation starter. It’s about the human spirit pushing back against the constraints of a system, about the flicker of individuality in a world built on uniformity.
The Colors Tell a Story: This isn’t a world painted in black and white. The reds and oranges burn with the fervor of dedication, the blues and greens whisper of unwavering resolve. But there’s a discordance here too, a clash of purpose that reflects the inner conflict of the figure. Is he a true believer, or a man playing a part?
Owning More Than an Image: When you own “Citizen Zero,” you’re not just getting a piece of art. You’re joining a conversation about power, duty, and the human spirit struggling against the tide. It’s a conversation that’s as relevant today as ever. So, what are you waiting for? Join the glitch. Let’s break the grid together.
Where’s Boris? The Art of Political Hide and Seek
Where’s Boris, 2019
Gouache on paper
21×29.7 cmAh, the colorful chaos of British politics in 2018! One moment you’re discussing the finer points of parliamentary procedure, the next, you’re wondering where on Earth your Foreign Secretary has vanished to. Inspired by one such episode of political peek-a-boo, I present to you my latest gouache painting, “Where’s Boris?”
For those who may have missed the drama, let’s rewind to June 2018. Picture this: The expansion of Heathrow Airport is up for a critical vote in the House of Commons, and it’s a highly contentious issue. Our Foreign Secretary at the time, Boris Johnson, had previously voiced strong opposition to the expansion, a stance that resonated with many of his constituents in Uxbridge and South Ruislip. However, when the time came for the decisive vote, Boris was nowhere to be found. Instead, he was on an unannounced diplomatic trip to Afghanistan.
This absence sparked a flurry of media coverage and public outcry, with many questioning the timing of his trip and the sincerity of his opposition to the Heathrow expansion. It wasn’t just about his physical absence from the vote, but a deeper inquiry into his commitment and accountability as a public servant during a pivotal moment.
The Inspiration Behind the Painting
My painting “Where’s Boris?” is a whimsical yet pointed commentary on this moment. Using bold hues of pink and yellow, I’ve created a backdrop that symbolizes the confusion and alarm of the time. The distinctive blonde hair is unmistakably Boris Johnson’s, yet his face is conspicuously absent. This absence is deliberate, echoing the public sentiment of a leader who seems to be missing in action when he is needed most.
The choice of gouache as a medium lends itself to the vibrant, almost surreal quality of the piece. Gouache, with its opaque and vivid properties, allows for strong contrasts and a playful yet striking representation of the subject matter. The bright colors and bold brush strokes mirror the dramatic and sometimes absurd nature of political events during this period.
A Witty Nod to Political Theatre
Creating this piece was not just an artistic endeavor, but also a form of social commentary. It captures a slice of political theatre that is as frustrating as it is fascinating. “Where’s Boris?” is my way of inviting viewers to reflect on the expectations we place on our leaders and the impact of their actions (or inactions) on the public psyche.
As I painted, I couldn’t help but chuckle at the sheer absurdity of the situation. Here is a leader, caught in a game of hide and seek with the entire nation watching. The phrase “Where’s Boris?” has become a humorous yet pointed symbol of the times—a blend of exasperation and bemusement.
Art as a Reflection of Society
Art has always been a powerful tool for reflection and critique. With “Where’s Boris?” I aim to capture a moment that, while specific to the UK and its political landscape, resonates universally. It’s a reminder of how leaders’ actions (or lack thereof) can leave a lasting impression on the collective consciousness.
So, here it is—my artistic take on a tumultuous period in British politics. “Where’s Boris?” is not just a question from the present but a timeless inquiry into the nature of leadership and accountability. As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of political affairs, may we always seek to find our leaders, not just in times of clarity, but especially in moments of crisis.
I hope this painting sparks conversations, evokes memories, and perhaps even brings a smile to your face as we ponder the peculiar game of political hide and seek that has us all asking, “Where’s Boris?”
Summer Solstice, 21st June 2018
Summer Solstice, 21st June 2018, 2018
Mixed media on board
21×29.7 cm
Private collectionSummer Solstice, 21st June 2018: A Reflection in Oil and Pencil (A4)
This piece, “Summer Solstice, 21st June 2018,” is a culmination of my attempt to capture the unique atmosphere of the longest day of the year. Working on an A4 board provided a defined space, a contained world within which to explore the interplay of light, form, and texture. The combination of oil paints and pencil, a technique I find particularly engaging, allowed me to juxtapose the fluidity of color with the precision of line.
The composition centers around the symbolic representation of a stone formation, reminiscent of ancient sites that celebrate the solstice. These forms, rendered in dark brown pencil, are not intended to be literal depictions of any specific monument. Instead, they serve as archetypes, representing the enduring connection between humanity and the cycles of nature. The pencil work is deliberately rough and textured, emphasizing the age and weathered nature of the stones. This contrasts sharply with the smoother, more luminous quality of the oil paint.
The background is a wash of vibrant blues, yellows, and greens, suggestive of the summer sky and landscape. The light emanating from the central white disc—the sun—is the focal point. This area is built up with layers of thin, translucent oil glazes, creating a sense of radiant energy. The halo effect around the sun further intensifies this feeling of light and warmth, capturing the very essence of the solstice.
Working within the A4 format presented its own set of challenges. The limited space required a careful consideration of composition and detail. Every mark, every brushstroke, had to be deliberate. This constraint, however, also fostered a sense of intimacy with the piece. It invites the viewer to engage with the details and to contemplate the symbolic weight of the subject matter.
This finished piece is not just a depiction of a specific day, but a reflection on the enduring power of the sun and its influence on our world. It’s a reminder of the cyclical nature of time and our connection to the natural world.
