Created 2024
Original oil on canvas
60cm x 90cm
When I plan and visualise an artwork I try and put myself in the position of the person viewing the finished artwork. I want them to see a realism style painting that shouts at them, demands their attention and forbids them to look away. I want it to spark a conversation, I want it to scream.
My paintings are authentic and a direct line from my heart so I have to focus on those subjects that mean a lot to me. Racism, poverty and the class system create such anger in me that it makes me feel that my heart will explode.
The result is a painting that is full of emotion.
Imagine finding an old book on your book shelf, you remember when you bought it, it has travelled with you since then. The book tells the story of a pivotal time all those years ago when one man caused a revolution that changed the world for the better. The world sees empathy and love as the most important things in life now. Profit and money are way down the list…
Unfortunately that story did not happen, no such revolution occurred, how different life would be if it had.
This is what I wanted to create in this artwork. I wanted to create an old ragged book that tells the story of one man, any man, it could be anyone who changed the world, I do not know who the man is in my painting but that is my point. It may be a book that is written in the future, it is a book of hope, a call to keep going, it just takes a spark..
As with all my paintings I completely cover the canvas in red paint. Once that is dry I use big brushes creating the outline and feel of the painting working the paint very quickly and aggressively. Once this is dry I add detail using smaller and small brushes. The aim is to create a hyperrealism painting. Once the painting is dry it will look like a new book and it is then that I use sand paper to lightly rub the surface exposing the underpainting creating a feeling of wear and tear. I am creating something new and gradually turning it into something old.
This is my passion
