PORTRAITS BY THE EXPERTS
Steps on how to capture a likeness
Mix up mediumsyour
Using acrylic as watercolour
Dynamic drawing Picture perfect
At any age
This month’s spotlight on a British Art Club member
We present...
EB WATTS
Known for her vibrant use of acrylics, this artist’s journey is as colourful as her paintings
Raised in a family of professional artists, Elizabeth Boies Watts (known professionally as EB Watts) was absorbed in art from a young age. “I was born into a family of professional artists. There was no television, and it was always an atmosphere of creativity and art from the very beginning,” she recalls.
Her passion for art was nurtured early on. “I was the youngest child and the last to leave home. I vividly remember my mother was always painting, so I did too. My talent has been a source of absolute pleasure, sometimes frustration, but joy with every achievement,” she shares.
The artist’s work frequently bridges two worlds: “I often paint a composition that I feel is American, or one that is inspired by England. That is because I am American but have lived in England for most of my life. We have travelled the world and I have always come home wanting to paint the exotic sights we have seen, from riding an elephant to seeing the Pyramids.”
Acrylic is her medium of choice, chosen for its versatility. “I like the way I can achieve certain effects by painting thin coats, one on top of the other. It is through this technique that I’m able to achieve the 3D look to my composition,” she explains.
Influenced by her upbringing, her art reflects a lifetime of diverse experiences. “I had some wonderful art teachers throughout my student days. My mother has always been an inspiration to me. She taught me about art, writing, interior decoration and above all, never stopped encouraging me and my two siblings.”
EB’s surroundings in Cheshire also play a significant role in her creativity. “I feel I am very lucky with where I live, what I’ve seen and where I’ve been. So many people I’ve known have been inspiring and encouraging. I love my life.” This blend of personal history, travel and daily inspiration culminates in paintings designed to captivate and challenge the viewer. “I usually spend hours sitting in front of a blank canvas. I try to decide on the foreground first, then the background. I want each painting to be different unless I plan to paint a pair. I try to achieve satisfaction for myself, as well as for others.”
Her unique approach, characterised by a vivid sense of colour and imagination, sets her apart. With each piece, EB aims to create a painting “that speaks to the viewer. A painting that stimulates and surprises with an unusual composition.” britishartclub.co.uk/profile/ebwatts ▫
Rabbit Heaven, acrylic, 46x36cm
Nicolas Martin
This artist paints alla prima from his orderly studio, creating everyday scenes with depth and nuance says Ramsha Vistro
Paris’ charm might be irresistible, but artist Nicolas Martin’s journey took him across the Atlantic to Montreal, where the cold, crisp light of Canadian winters now drives his art. His childhood was steeped in culture and creativity; amidst the art-filled streets of Paris and his mother always playing classical music.
“Paris is like an outdoor museum –art is everywhere – and I’ve always felt incredibly fortunate,” he reflects. “My mother played an important role in my introduction to art and music.” Early exposure to such an environment furthered a deep appreciation for the
arts, which Nicolas’ mother nurtured by encouraging his constant drawing.
The city’s museums were his playground and his early exposure to Impressionist art came, not through formal education, but as gifts in the form of books. “I was lucky enough to visit all the museums in Paris before I was old enough to do it alone,” he smiles. His constant companion was a sketchbook, encouraged by a mother who recognised the budding artist within him. “If I hadn’t shown any interest in art, I don’t think I would have visited so many museums,” he muses.
In 1999, Nicolas made the bold decision to leave France, seeking new ▸
Whitechapel, 2013, oil on linen, 15x20cm
Eyes On The Pride, graphite on paper, 110x74cm
Tom Middleton
This artist started making art professionally in his late twenties as a means to support his budding music career. Now, he’s an award-winning wildlife artist, finds Niki Browes ▸
Trisha Ada
Making art only came to TRISHA ADAMS in midlife, writes Sarah Edghill, but that didn’t hinder her.
Big Buoy, oil, 30.5x30.6cm
Lilacs in Crystal Vase, oil, 50.8x40.6cm
Sweet Smell of Lavender, oil, 22.9x30.5cm
