In the world of contemporary art, Francis Bowyer NEAC PPRWS stands out as a versatile and talented artist, known for his captivating watercolour, oil, and mixed media works. With a distinguished career spanning several decades, Bowyer has not only earned recognition for his artistic prowess but has also made a significant impact as a teacher and influential figure in the art community. In this blog post, we will delve into the life and practice of Francis Bowyer, our Artist of the Month.
BIOGRAPHY:
Francis Bowyer, a member and past President of the Royal Watercolour Society (RWS) from 2000 to 2003, was born in London and studied at St Martins School of Art and Chelsea School of Art. Currently residing and working in West London, Bowyer has established himself as a prominent figure in the art world, regularly exhibiting at the Royal Watercolour Society and the New English Art Club.
Bowyer's artistic journey began with a notable milestone in 1991 when he was featured as the artist of focus at the RWS. Over the years, he has received various accolades, including the W.H. Patterson Fine Arts Award in 1995 and the Arts Club Prize at the 226th Royal Academy. His engaging paintings depicting children on the beach at Walberswick, Suffolk, and vibrant interiors of Parisian restaurants have captivated both the public and collectors alike.
ARTISTIC PRACTICE:
Francis Bowyer's artistic practice encompasses watercolour, oil, and mixed media, showcasing his ability to create evocative and dynamic compositions. He finds inspiration in familiarity and often chooses subjects that he knows and understands, such as his own allotment. Bowyer's watercolour works particularly highlight moments of drama or interesting movement, drawing the viewer into his paintings through their vividness and expressiveness.
INFLUENCES:
Bowyer acknowledges the influence of renowned artists Joan Eardley and John Piper on his work. He greatly admires their ability to convey emotion while maintaining a structured approach, allowing the observer to understand the artist's intentions and feelings. This fusion of emotional resonance and compositional control is something Bowyer strives for in his own artwork.
PALETTE AND TECHNIQUE:
Francis Bowyer's artistic process reflects a dynamic and intuitive approach. He describes his palette as somewhat chaotic, often incorporating a wide range of colors. He points out that, “you need to allow strange oddities to occur; it’s rather nice.” This experimentation allows him to respond spontaneously to his subject, embracing unexpected and serendipitous outcomes. Bowyer finds joy in the creative process and believes that keeping his options open throughout allows for the emergence of intriguing and unique elements within his paintings.
CHOICE OF SUBJECT:
Bowyer's choice of subject matter is driven by moments that resonate with him on a personal level. Whether it be the energy of a storm or the play of light on a familiar scene, he seeks to capture those captivating instants that evoke an emotional response. His recurring visits to Walberswick and the ever-changing interplay of sunlight in his studio continually inspire him to create expressive and vibrant works.
Francis Bowyer's remarkable artistic journey showcases his ability to navigate between abstraction and figuration, infusing his works with emotion and a lively vibrancy. As a member of esteemed art institutions, a dedicated teacher, and an award-winning artist, Bowyer's impact on the art world is undeniable. His dedication to his craft and his ability to capture the essence of a moment make him a worthy choice as our July Artist of the Month.
To truly appreciate the talent and artistry of Francis Bowyer, we invite you to explore his captivating works, which convey a unique blend of spontaneity, emotion, and skill.
