Contemporary artist BARRY AMEY

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WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU WERE YOUNG?

As a young person, I always wanted to be an artist, specifically a comic book artist. However, I realised that my illustration skills weren’t as strong as my peers, so I completed a foundation in art to develop more of my skills into deciding what I really wanted to specialise in.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST FULL TIME JOB?

I was an experienced photographic technician working with distinguished clients, including Ralph Steadman, Tim Page, as well as large advertising agencies and companies such as Smirnoff Vodka, as well as many advertising firms and even the police. I gained invaluable experience through my work.

IF YOU COULD INVITE ANY TWO PEOPLE FOR DINNER, WHO WOULD THEY BE AND WHY WOULD YOU INVITE THEM?

Stewart Lee as he has the potential to bring much entertainment and amusement and Marcel DuChamp for his thought-provoking artwork which has been a source of inspiration for me.

IF YOU COULD BUILD A HOUSE ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD, WHERE WOULD IT BE?

Aix-en-Provence or St Paul de Vence in the south of France is a beautiful place. I love the fact that my favourite painter Cezanne was nearby. I had the chance to view his studio, as well as Mount St Victoire, both of which gave me an extraordinary experience for his 100th Anniversary. and

HOW DO YOU LIKE TO RELAX?

I like to relax by watching films, different series and playing computer games! I enjoy tennis as well as listening to good music.

WHAT’S IN YOUR POCKETS?

I have a bronze die that I bought in Austria at a Christmas market, lots of sharpies and a neon pink paint pen and, of course, my phone.

WHAT WAS YOUR BIGGEST MISTAKE IN LIFE?

One of my biggest regrets is not attending the Glasgow School of Art to do my degree, as a lot of artists in my year went on to win the Turner prize and I would have had the chance to collaborate with them.

WHAT WAS YOUR LUCKIEST BREAK?

It has to be meeting my wife, I have been so lucky to meet her and we share the same interests in art, and visit galleries together.

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE DOING IN FIVE YEARS’ TIME?

Having a wonderful studio where I can create artwork full time, I would also love to collaborate with other artists in Cornwall.

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