Works
The way I see the world changed in 1968, when as a student, I went into the library and came across a book by Martin Luther King, entitled, 'Chaos or Community'. I sat down and began to read it and did not stand up until I had finished reading. In 1970 I started teaching Art and History in Arundel Comprehensive School in Liverpool 8, or Toxteth as it became known due to mass media coverage. My work as a teacher and artist has not strayed for far from the lessons I learnt that day in 1968, which were reinforced a few years later on a course at Lancaster University by Bernard Coard's booklet, 'How the West Indian Child Is Made Educationally Subnormal in the British School System: The Scandal of the Black Child in Schools in Britain' and from with the Black community in Liverpool since 1970.
I admire the craftsmanship of an artisan, the skilled manual worker, who makes items that may be functional or strictly decorative. I believe in seeking knowledge and pursuing excellence, in mind, body and spirit, from the cradle to the grave. Inspiration and imagery also comes from critical analysis or appreciation in scholarly texts or investigative journalism, poetry, speeches or scriptures; biographies of exemplary people and their beliefs; scientists, the natural world and great achievements. Mostly I work in oils on canvas, hardboard or canvasboard, but also in acrylic, gouache, pastels and pencil on paper or card.
My work is influenced by various styles and ideas, including,
* photorealism,
* social and magic realism,
* surrealism,
* commercial art,
* illustration and graphic design,
* anti-racism and progressive politics,
* universal values,
* the true spirit of belief in one God,
* the miracles of the created universe,
* inspirational ideas in scriptures, poems, motivational texts,
* memorable accomplishments by outstanding sporting luminaries.
I'm happy to create art or illustration to your requirements. Take a look around this site, especially on the home page. Perhaps you'll find something that already matches your taste perfectly, and it may be available to purchase or as a large print.
I can create individual works of art for your home, office or managed space. You can make a personal statement or reflect corporate or family beliefs, values or traditions with one of my works in the living room, reception area or meeting room.