Biography
Born: Canterbury Lives and works:Warwickshire Education: Kingston University London Awards: Benson and Hedges Gold Award for Illustration Whether it was sketching his favourite comic book superheroes or drawing caricatures of his school teachers, a childhood affinity for art paved the way for a successful career for Hamish Blakely. During his time as a professional illustrator, his clients included The Body Shop and British Telecom. He was also chosen to paint two front covers for the world- renowned author of Schindler’s List,Thomas Keneally. Inspired by the beauty of the female form, his artworks hint at deeper, primal forces. Using a rich colour palette, Hamish paints with finesse while creating a tactile surface achieved with layer upon layer of heavily-applied pigment. Like many great
artists, he has a muse – and it is none other than his wife, Gail! Hamish says:“We men folk have a lot to learn, and I have learned a great deal from her since we met. My art celebrates that mystifying blend of feminine beauty and strength.While loyal to that enduring genre of the celebrated nude and venerated goddess in art, I also explore the majesty of a woman’s presence.” The artist has explored themes of empowerment, narcissism and even ‘smartphone mania’. Subjects have included angels, courtesans and celebrities, but his loyalty remains to the intrinsic power of women. He adds:“There is something primal and mystical about creating the illusion of a convincing vision on a once bare stretch of canvas.”
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