Alan Stratford

My life as an artist really began when in 2002 I moved to Somerset from London, following an 18 year career in graphic design. I still work in the graphics industry and now run my own design company in Wells – it pays the bills – but my real passion has long been painting. In the early days it was always in watercolours, but after deciding they were too restrictive for my style of work, I switched to oils which I find far more forgiving. Inspired by the beauty of the West Country landscape and the ever-changing drama of Mendip skies, I endeavour to create works which are both ‘evocative and atmospheric'. In 2009 I was lucky enough to win the 'Artist of the Year' award sponsored by Artists and Illustrators magazine for my painting entitled 'That Certain Smile'. The painting of a young woman was a complete departure from my usual semi-abstract landscapes and has led to numerous commissioned portraits of not only people but also horses. I love to explore new subject matters and painting styles, either figurative or abstract, continually striving for the perfect balance of aesthetic appeal and artistic merit.