In this Spotlight Interview, Stephen Byrne talks to us about his recent entry into the art world, and what he has lined up for the future! See more of his work at: www.thecreativebyrne.com
Being an artist
Please give us a few words of introduction about yourself
I have recently retired from a varied international career during which time I dabbled in oil painting, mainly portraits. Now a Silver Surfer, I am focused on launching myself as a painter and designer using a flower series as an entry point.
How and when did you start out as an artist?
I started drawing as a boy and have continued ever since.
What training did you have?
I am self-taught but intend to participate in a number of practical and creative workshops during the next 12 months or so.
What has been your best creative achievement so far?
The large scale Giclee of a Pot Plant which is shown on our website and the realisation that good art can be readily adapted to multi media presentation. As a result, The Creative Byrne team of Eva & Stephen are starting to develop a range of fabrics which will be shortly available on our website.
General Questions
What’s your favourite quote?
Do whatever you can with whatever you’ve got. Just DO IT. ‘Roosvelt.
Who is your favourite artist?
A tie between Gauguin, Van Gogh and the Ancient Egyptians.
What are you aiming for?
To share my vision of the colour, exuberance and challenge of life through the representation of every day objects such as plants and flowers.
How will you get there?
By hard work and sharing my work as widely as possible.
Is anything holding you back?
Time and feedback since this is my first entry into the art world.
You and art
What sort of reactions do you get to your work? are you ever surprised?
Generally very positive though it is considered somewhat eccentric and yes, I am constantly surprised by the reaction of my grandchildren who want to sit down and work with me. In fact, we are working with on of our young grandsons on a new fabric design.
From start to finish, how long does it take for you to create your work?
For each piece around four weeks of intense effort.
What music do you like to listen to when you work?
Classical Opera.
What is next in the pipeline for you? Any new directions or shows coming up?
I am considering a very large scale wildflower meadow of 6 or 9 individual pieces, which can be assembled to the large piece but will be works in their own right. My wife and I are also very interested in using the base works for fabric and interior design and will produce the first three works in tome for our first exhibition in September – the New Artists Fair at the Truman Brewery, Brick Lane, on 5th, 6th and 7th September.
Being inspired by art
Who (living or dead) inspires you? and why?
An old friend, Bob Delaney, who, despite a very difficult life was willing to help anyone in need.
What feelings, subjects or concepts inspire you as an artist?
Natural chaos and vibrant colours.
What is your favourite work that you’ve produced so far and why?
A portrait of my wife which shows her as I see her.
an artist’s advice
Have you got any advice for those starting out as an artist?
Just do it!
