Portraiture

As a portrait artist, I see my primary task being to capture the spirit and energy of the individual subject. In order to fulfill this task I conduct a vast amount of research around the subject. Wherever possible, I like to meet personally with the subject, and spend some time getting to know them. However there are times when this is not practical or possible and in these situations I will try to meet with the close friends or relatives of the subject instead. I find that these meetings are crucial in giving me a broader perspective and truer account of the person's personality. This knowledge and understanding is then transferred into the sculpture, to make the piece breath with the energy, personality and life of the subject.

Anatomical accuracy is also a key factor in this process: Depending on the information and access that is available, I use various methods to ensure I achieve the correct proportions. These methods include me holding several sittings with the person or animal I am sculpting, during which time, dozens of photos and measurements are taken. Where this is not possible, I try to acquire any and every good quality image of the person or animal, taken from as many angles as I can find, at roughly the same age, and in a similar pose. These images are then scaled to the appropriate size, and are used throughout the sculpting process.

In order to capture the energy of a person, be it a "sober" sedate holy man, or a charismatic, dynamic sports personality, a great deal of sensitivity, empathy and understanding is required from the sculptor in all stages of the process.

I think of my work as being an honest, living and sensitive account of the subject, so that he or she is remembered and understood as they are or were, and for what they achieved during their lifetime.

I would say that because of these qualities I have the reputation for taking on challenging projects, such as the portrait of the famous scientist Stephen Hawking, the more dynamic sporting stars such as Jordan Knight, and Martin Peters, and the charismatic comic genius Les Dawson.

I follow the ethos that my work will always be of the highest standard possible, and carefully quality control the whole process to ensure that the client receives a beautiful piece of artwork that will last for many, many years.

See Gallery ..>