William Watson-West
William Watson-West is a contemporary abstract artist based near Harrogate on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, producing vibrant and evocative artwork inspired by his surroundings. His first-hand observations of landscape, flora and fauna form the basis of his work.
Graduating from Edinburgh College of Art in 2011 with a degree in Textiles, William has since exhibited his mixed-media paintings at several galleries in the north of England, including 108 Fine Art and the Mercer Art Gallery, Harrogate. He has previously been shortlisted for the prestigious New Light Art Prize and has been selected for the Great North Art Show amongst others. His painting, ‘Swinsty in Autumn’ was the 2019 winner of the Best Picture Award at the 20th Anniversary Ilkley Art Show.
“Through my mixed media paintings I seek to translate the emotions evoked by my surroundings onto paper.
Having spent most of my life growing up on the edge of the beautiful Yorkshire Dales, I have developed a deep affection for my surroundings.
Whether it is autumn, winter, spring or summer, the landscape offers a constant source of inspiration with its ever-changing light, colours and textures.
I am equally as inspired by the verdant fields and foliage of the family garden as by the sometimes stark but imposing landscape of the moors in a storm or the height of winter.
My latest work marks a shift in direction in both subject matter and media, exploring the use of acrylic and pastel to create evocative still lifes and abstract paintings.
Inspired by the surroundings in and around my Yorkshire farmhouse there continues to be a sense of emotion translated into my work with bold use of colour and texture.”
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