Two New Additions to Portrait of Heroes
This week marks the release of two new paintings in my Portrait of Heroes collection – an ongoing series that has brought me immense joy over the years. Each painting is a labour of love, requiring significant time to complete, which naturally limits the number I can produce. Still, the process remains deeply rewarding, allowing me to pay homage to historical artistry while incorporating contemporary techniques.
Merging Tradition with Technology
Historically, my work has drawn inspiration from classical paintings, particularly those capturing legendary figures and grand historical moments. Jean-Louis Ernest Meissonier’s renowned 1814 depiction of Napoleon I, for example, has greatly influenced my approach to composition and atmosphere.
However, for these latest pieces, I took a new path, exploring the possibilities of AI-assisted visualisation. This has proven invaluable for conceptualising complex scenes, especially those requiring intricate details, such as figures mounted on horseback, dressed in elaborate period attire. While I rely on references to build my compositions, I also remain deeply connected to the techniques of the old masters, who mastered the craft of dramatic lighting and evocative landscapes.
Crafting Atmosphere and Emotion
Both paintings incorporate signature elements reminiscent of historic works: moody, turbulent skies and stark, desolate landscapes. Yet, I allowed room for improvisation throughout the creative process, embracing intuition to shape each scene organically. The interplay of shadow and light, as well as the placement of figures within vast, windswept terrain, became central to my storytelling approach.
Exhibiting the Work
The first of the two new pieces, Ballad of a Hero, is a commanding 180x130 cm work that now holds pride of place in the window display at the prestigious Joseph Fine Art gallery in central London. The second, La Leyenda (The Legend), measuring 110x140 cm, will soon be exhibited in Baja California, Mexico, at Galería Militar, offering a new audience the opportunity to experience its grandeur.
If you're interested in acquiring either of these paintings or wish to discuss a commission for a new work, I would love to hear from you.
