'The foundations of my work are also inspired by events in the news. I think it would be tough to find stranger works in The Cotswolds'
Originally from Yorkshire, Artist Richard Woods moved to Cheltenham when he was seven years old. Studying Fine Art Painting and Drawing at The University of Gloucestershire, Richard Graduated in 2008. Since then he's exhibited all around the Cotswolds and further afield including Bristol, Edinburgh and Amsterdam. He even did a day's work experience at Damien Hirst's Studio.
When did you realise this would be your career?
I've drawn and painted ever since I was a toddler and pictures have always fascinated me. I always knew it was what I was going to do. I think I have a kind of excessive determination' which means I dream big and believe in my abilities to achieve at the biggest of challenges.
Who or what inspires you?
The media plays a big part in researching for a project, also P.G Wodehouse books, Scorsese and Hitchcock films. I like to see each painting I do as a film or story with heroes, villains , tragedies and celebrations. The foundations of my work are also inspired by events in the news. I feel I need a cause in order for the work to have a real sense of purpose, By doing works that people can relate to creates a lot of interest which is essential for sales.
What are your favourite things to paint?
My work is figurative inspired by German and Scottish art. I largely work from my imagination and often use my own face as a template to create new characters. I love having a story to paint.
A lot of your work is based on a dark take of a contemporary issue. What attracts you to this?
I find it quite easy to take my work to a dark place. I set myself high standards and get annoyed at my own limitations. The news is always very dark and distressing so using it as subject matter is ideal for my style of painting. I think as an artist to create any great work of art you need to look at the world then decide what you want to say about it before beginning.
What is next for you as an artist?
I currently have two exhibitions on the go, one at The Moreton Gallery, showcasing a number of environmental works until August 12th. Then from 4th - 16th July I have an exhibition at THe Burlington Gallery, of my 'Economic Crisis' works. I sell largely through Scottish galleries, namely The Braewell Galleries, so I hope to progress this whilst also working toward cracking the London art scene. I've also recently been in contact with galleries from New York, Los Angeles and Germany.
If you could paint anywhere in the world where would it be?
I think I would eventually like to live in Edinburgh, such a wonderful city. The lighting is so different there and the skies are so dramatic.
What do The Cotswolds mean to you?
I did a whole series of work back in 2007 based on the flooding of Gloucestershire. THis was to become my degree show, most of the work is now in private collections. It's great to live here. I've used the buildings and landscapes as research for my paintings before and I'll often take a sketchbook into bars and pubs to draw the locals.
Have you had any strange requests for paintings?
I've had commissions to paint animals, which I've always been good at. I think my paintings are so different to what is currently on the market; I think it would be tough to find stranger works in the cotswolds, which is good. I want people to recognise my style as 'Richard Woods.' I like each painting to be one of a kind. I aim for a mixed reaction from the public by doing something they weren't expecting, giving them a breath of fresh air.
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