ABSTRACT PAINTING AND ABSTRACTION

This book was published in November 2017 and features a survey of my paintings since I was a student with work dating back to the beginning of my second year at the University of Reading whilst doing a four year BA in Fine Art in 1986. I have written with the intention of providing opinions, reflections, discourse and even advice and guidance for people interested in looking or making abstract art. I have sought to explain the difference between the abstract, used as a noun and to abstract, used as a verb. 

I am a colourist and concern myself with the challenges of handling paint with skill and invention to maximise its expressiveness as colour. The book touches upon historical examples and I refer to numerous artists who have inspired and challenged me since my formative years as a painter. I made a slow, sometimes difficult move into abstract painting - it is a never-ending journey and I can testify that I have never 'adopted' a way of working; each new phase has evolved methodically out of a previous one. I have always tried to put decisions about colour at the forefront of my practice. 

I have, alongside my painting, enjoyed a successful career as a teacher and instructor. I feel this has facilitated a better understanding of how to communicate effectively, not least when reflecting upon my own work, to myself. I hope you enjoy reading the book should you purchase it and I am more than happy to sign copies should the opportunity arise.