Glenn Ibbitson
Have a look at Glenn Ibbitson's Slideshow
Where are you from originally and where do you live now?
Mine is a journey from Yorkshire (via London) to Carmarthenshire; two miles south of Newcastle Emlyn. The two regions share a similar social outlook and heritage. There is also a specific link; I need only mention here that I was brought up in Leeds, for someone to ask 'You know of John Charles, then?" Indeed; he was my fathers sporting idol.
What medium/media do you work in?
Drawing and painting using traditional materials. I also employ collage and printmaking techniques in mixed media combinations.
How would you describe your work?
I cover a broad range of subject matter; landscape, interiors, still-life, portraiture and life painting, all in a representational idiom. My central interest is the human figure; not the idealised, sanitised, celebrity model, but the [extra]ordinary body with its myriad imperfections, asymmetry and irregularities; subject to the processes of ageing, and the laws of gravity.
What are your influences and inspirations?
My artistic influences are numerous; the sublimity of Vermeer, the drama of Caravaggio, the notation of Bonnard, the structural organisation of Cezanne and the intellectual sweep of Kiefer. However, my initial inspirations were less lofty; the illustrations of Thomas Henry [Just William] and the 60's superhero comic strips of Neal Adams [Deadman, Green Arrow, Spectre, X-Men] .
What piece/pieces of work are you most proud of and why?
Difficult question, as the landmark works which signify a technical or stylistic breakthrough may not be exhibition pieces. I think I would stand by those paintings which people have chosen to live with through commissions and purchases.
Have you had any exhibitions if so where ? Do you have any planned in the future?
In the past I have shown in London, Salisbury, Tunbridge Wells, Harrogate [all solo], New York, Dortmund, Leeds and Manchester. In the last year I have exhibited with Fishguard Art Society and the Teifi Art Group in Pembrokeshire, Ceredigion and Powys.
Please give a brief description of one or two of the projects you've worked on most recently?
I am working towards a solo show at Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan [Aug - Sept]. "Smoke and Mirrors" is a series of paintings populated by circus performers and illusionists engaged in a variety of sideshow tableaux and acts of sleight of hand. I am drawing on my experience of visual trickery as a scenic artist at BBC Television Centre to investigate the nature of trompe-l'oeil effects and [mis]representation.
What are your views of the current Welsh scene both nationally and in south Wales?
Welsh visual arts can no longer be dismissed as pastorally provincial; fundamental issues are being addressed through a wide range of media and activity, which have traditionally been regarded as metropolitan. These developments need to be seen globally, and concerted web coverage and international exhibition opportunities are required to achieve the recognition Welsh arts deserve. Artists themselves need to become more pro-active as exhibition organisers and by assuming curatorial responsibility, provide the public with more informed criticism. Find out more about Glenn by visiting www.glennart.co.ukThe BBC is not responsible for the content of external websites.
|
related www links
The BBC is not responsible for the content of external websites
|
|
