Artist Showcase: Owen Claxton

Hi everyone,

Mark Watson here with exciting news!

Alongside the fantastic artists featured in my children's books, I'm thrilled to showcase the exceptional talents of some artists from my college days, a few of them have soared to remarkable heights in the art world.

In the '90s, I had the privilege of studying at the Edinburgh College of Art alongside some incredibly talented artists.

I'm always curious about how my old university mates are faring, and I take pride in their impressive accomplishments.

So, in these showcase posts, I'd like to take a moment to share some of their outstanding work with you and I ask, if you like them, to share their art as far and wide as you possibly can - Thanks 😻

Today, let's shine a spotlight on the art of Owen Claxton.

When you first encounter the term "College of Art," the immediate assumption might be a sea of abstract painters striving to be the next Picasso. However, within this realm of creativity, it becomes apparent that artists skilled in photorealistic approaches are often well-established and eager to push the boundaries of their craft.

That's precisely why I've chosen to kick off this Showcase with Owen Claxton. As a highly realistic artist, his work leaves no room for doubt regarding the subject. What truly sets his paintings apart are the nuanced painting technique, meticulous brushstrokes, and unwavering attention to detail. Owen’s paintings transmit a sense of informality, creating a more intimate connection between the viewer and the subject and that’s before we’ve even begun to talk about the way Owen uses Light and Colour!

Owen skillfully utilizes light and color to imbue his subjects with a distinct Scottish feel. He embraces the unique atmospheric qualities of Scotland, leveraging its often stark and cool nature. I always know where I am and what time of day it is in one of Owen’s paintings.

Wow, take a deep breath and appreciate the beautiful paintings of Owen Claxton…

These two are my own personal favourites because I’m working on a project with deep roots and meaning in the colours; gold, blue and yellow…

Unfortunately, I haven’t managed to persuade Owen into illustrating one of my own children’s books… yet!

Fingers crossed for the future though, who knows what will happen.

About Owen Claxton

Qualifications:

• BA (Hons) in Drawing and Painting. Edinburgh College of Art, 1991-95.

• MFA in Painting, Edinburgh College of Art, 1995-97.

Awards & Prizes:

• Scottish International Education Trust Award (£1000), 1996.

• Joint winner of Andrew Grant Bequest Painting Prize, ECA, January Exhibition 1997.

• Greenshields Foundation Award (£4000), 2002.

Private Collections:

Work in collections across the UK, also in Ireland, France, Belgium, Holland, Sweden, Germany, Spain, Portugal, Austria, Italy, Malta, Greece, Canada, S Africa, Thailand, USA, Brazil, Puerto Rico, Australia, New Zealand, China, S Korea. Where to buy a Claxton…  

Owen Claxton on ebay: http://stores.ebay.co.uk/Owen-Claxton-FineArtsContact: email: [email protected] 

Thank you for reading, feel free to share with ALL your friends 😻

Calling all my cherished Substack subscribers!

Your likes, comments, and shares could be the magic wand that introduces my children's books to a wider audience.

Your support means the world! 🌟✨

Your time and curiosity are truly appreciated. Stay tuned for more exciting content and stories.

Until next time!

All the best,Mark 🤩

P.S. Tell your friends…

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