I started this site in order to showcase my paintings and share my views on fine art, what inspires me to paint and where possible to contribute, learn more, and also to utilise the site as a platform for my fine art in general. I have worked as a freelance commercial artist for just over thirty years, servicing the advertising industry – having worked on many different projects, encompassing various disciplines to create the artwork required. This has given me a good base as an artist.
Originally when I started out as a freelancer, much of the artwork was done the traditional way – using media like acrylics, inks (particularly for airbrushing), watercolours and various other media. occasionally I’d receive a commission to paint a subject for a client or ad agency that would involve painting in Oils or acrylics. Most projects were commercial and briefing was frequently ‘tight’ – always with the clients objectives in mind.
Once the digital ushered in, the advertising industry transitioned to the computer for creation of artwork and desktop publishing was born. I resisted at first, but a few years later had little choice but to join the digital community. The world-wide web also came into being and e-mails were replacing fax as a means to communicate. The rise of software applications like Adobe Photoshop also impacted hugely on editing of artwork and even the creation thereof.. 3D applications also came to the fore and subsequently the nature of artwork creation changed for me. As a freelancer – one had to be a ‘jack of all trades’ because I’d have to create artwork in so many forms. Examples would be digital illustration, vector art, graphic design in its various forms and also finished art. 3D modelling and rendering were also a huge part of my everyday workflow – having taken years to learn and become proficient in, was essential to the working pipeline.
Now, many years down the line I’ve re-discovered my roots and being somewhat disenchanted with the industry due to being restricted by briefs from creatives at ad agencies, chasing after payments and the innate commercialism that comes with the advertising industry as a whole. I find painting therapeutic and creatively I can explore. The possibilities with paint and it’s challenges will be a lifelong pursuit to master.
As a realist painter, my work is moving toward the narrative genre. I’ve always loved work that explored the obscure undercurrents of the subject – what ‘draws’ the viewer in.. and thereby the viewer have an affinity with a work. I intend to show work that is original and inspired, always seeking to perfect the oeuvre..
– 15 June 2015 –
Clive Kirk | Fine Art 
