|
Welcome to our new Artist of the Month section, and congratulations to Clem Spencer for being our first artist to be selected.
|
|
Here is a brief interview with Clem.
|
|
|
|
Hi Clem - can you tell us a little about yourself, and how you got started as an artist?
|
|
My early career as a draughtsman was followed by a lecturing post in naval achitecture. During this period I painted on a part time basis. This became quite successful but I felt I needed to know much more about the fine art world. I therefore decided to take a BA course at the Open University. I graduated in 1997 and became a full time artist in 1980.
|
|
I am married to Doreen and we have two sons. One is the senior partner in a graphic design firm in London. The other is a professional woodturner and garden designer.
|
|
|
|
What are you favourite subjects to paint?
|
|
My subject matter is wide ranging. My favourite subjects are those which "switch me on". This may be flowers, birds, landscapes or seascapes. In this respect I am very fortunate. My garden provides me with much material and the sea and moors are just a few miles away.
|
|
|
|
Do you have any advice for aspiring artists, or for those new to art?
|
|
This is not an easy one. There are so many courses etc., available these days that choosing the suitable one can be very dificult. I give demonstrations and one-to-one tutoring from time to time but always make it clear that this is my way of doing it. It probably will not be theirs. In the end they will have to find their own way.
|
|
|
|
What do you hope people see in your art?
|
|
I hope people not only look but also feel something which I felt when I was "switched on" by the subject. The following quote from one of my clients after visiting an exhibition in London in which I was participating I think makes the point "All your pictures held a certain magic for me which I cannot explain."
|
|
|
|
Who are your favourite artists, and are there any works in particular which have inspired you?
|
|
I like Turner's atmospheric work and Kandinsky's spiritural approach.
|
|
|
|
What famous painting or work of art do you wish you had produced?
|
|
This is an interesting one. I do not think I have ever had such a desire when looking at a famous picture. However I have often wondered why some paintings are considered famous!
|
|
|
|
Apart from your portfolio at artfair365.co.uk, how do you promote your work - are you a member of any societies, and do you have any exhibitions planned?
|
|
I am a member of the Society of Botanical Artists and of The Society of Floral Painters. I am also the Chairman of a local art group and am involved with a local Rotary Club. All these have exhibition outlets. I am currently exhibiting at the Mayflower Galleries in Tavistock, Devon.
Over the last 15 years I have been running an exhibition in aid of the local Hospice. This is held in my studio, house and garden. It will again take place this year.
|
|
|
|
From your own portfolio, which are your favourite 3 artworks?
|
|
I do not really have any favourites. Some are better than others but the one that may be my favourite has not yet been painted! However, if you press me I would say, perhaps it would be 'A walk through the poppies', 'The Great Mewstone', and 'Spring mists and primroses'.
|
|
|
|
Click here to view Clem's portfolio.
|
Home
Login
Join Us !
