We had a fabulous ‘meet the artist’ exhibition event with the brilliant animal portraiture artist Nicky Litchfield. Here are some photos from the exhibition along with a Q and A from Nicky!
1. How did you come to be an artist?
I always enjoyed drawing as a child. From school I went on to study at art college and a series of creative jobs followed. Around 2009, when I had a particularly significant birthday, I made the decision to follow my passion and make painting my full time career. The rest as they say is history ....
2. Describe your work in three words
Emotive
Expressive
Playful
3. What medium do you prefer to work in and why?
Pastels are by far my favourite medium. I love the vibrancy of the colours, the variety of mark making options and the unique way it combines the practices of both drawing and painting.
4. Does where you are from or where you live influence your work?
Yes, my grandparents had a farm and as a child I spent a lot of time there helping out with the chickens, sheep, horses and pigs. Animals have, and always will be, a big part of my life.
5. Where do you draw inspiration from?
I’m fortunate to live in the Ribble Valley and am surrounded by beautiful countryside and farmland. Much of my inspiration comes from the wildlife and animals that I encounter when out walking my dog Max.
6. Do you listen to any favourite music, radio or podcasts whilst working in the studio?
When doing mundane tasks in the studio I might listen to the radio. But when working on artworks I like my studio to be quiet and peaceful.
7. Which artists/creative individuals are your biggest influencers?
I’m constantly inspired by other artists both past and present, so far too many to mention. However, Mary Cassatt and Degas will always be my biggest influences as a pastel artist. For draftsmanship I adore the drawings of the late Victor Ambrose.
8. What drew you to exhibit at Vermilion Gallery – do you have a criteria for choosing the galleries where you would like to show your work?
Wonderful location, beautiful gallery and lovely people.
9. What are you most excited about artistically in 2024
I love what I do - so looking forward to even more of the same!
