IAN H WATKINS – Painting has always been a passion for Ian H Watkins.
Empowered by his love of performing arts, Ian’s foray into the visual arts is not unexpected. After leaving school, he was accepted into Cardiff Art College, but decided to defer for a year to peruse performing. That year turned in to 25 years! Although performing has been his focus, now he's found time to be creative and to pick up his paint brushes!
After twenty-five years, four #1 albums, and 22 million albums later with the hugely successful pop group, Steps, Ian found himself looking for another creative endeavour after starting a family. It was then he returned to painting and began creating striking mixed media pieces depicting the vast beauty and encompassing nature of Welsh landscapes.
A collection of paintings inspired by the beauty of the raw and natural Welsh landscape, Ian’s artwork is a testament to his identity as a Welsh man, proudly connected to his roots.
Ian’s debut collection; 'Hiraeth' was a testament to his identity as a Welsh man, proudly connected to his roots. An untranslatable term; Hiraeth can be used to describe the yearning and love for Wales and Welsh culture. This theme is evident in Ian’s work with his sprawling landscapes, rich earthy colours, and primitive and authentic form.
Most recently, Ian latest collection 'Adre', Welsh for 'Home,' encapsulates where Ian's heart truly belongs. While 'Hiraeth' stirred emotions of longing for Wales with its untamed landscapes, 'Adre' reaffirms Ian's connection to his roots, displaying a newfound passion and confidence evident in every brushstroke upon his canvas.
From the coastal vistas of South Wales to the serene Lakes and Valleys of North Wales and of course, the beautiful countryside which bridges the ancient landscape, Ian masterfully captures the fleeting beauty of Wales, ensuring his art resonates with viewers on a profound level.
Ian prefers to use a restricted simple palette with a focus on texture and mixed materials.
By using a variety of materials, Ian achieves dimension, depth, and character on his canvases.
With a slight melancholic undertone to his work, Ian loves to focus on the heavy contrast between dark skies and brighter foregrounds allowing the viewer to be initially drawn to the bold use of colour, then inviting the viewer to look closer into the woods, skies, and seas.
'Adre' is more than a series of paintings; it is a heartfelt ode to Wales. Ian's passion for his home is woven into every canvas, making his art a compelling narrative of his life and his land. Through his work, Ian invites us all to share in the beauty and magic of Wales, ensuring that its landscapes and spirit live on in the hearts of those who experience his art
