Process
Ian prefers to work from life as much as possible. Prints always begin with a preparatory drawing, either from direct observation or relevant source material. The design is transferred to a piece of lino or wood cut to size before specialist tools are used to cut out the required areas. The block is then inked up using a roller before a sheet of paper is placed carefully on top. Ian uses a Columbian press to produce the print.
Ian uses hand made Japanese paper to produce a limited and numbered edition of prints. A small number of Artist Proofs, or 'AP's, are also created during the final stages of the printing process. These may differ very slightly from the main edition.
Framed prints may be purchased at Staithes Gallery and the Pineapple Gallery in Bishop Auckland. Unframed prints are also available and can be sent in the post. Please ask about availability and pricing.
Most of Ian's paintings are completed in his studio at home on the North York Moors. His compositions begin in his journal, either based on drawings from life and source imagery or from imagination.
The majority of pieces are painted using oil paints on linen canvases but he also uses watercolours.
Ian has regularly collaborated with other artists, most notably with the Aberdeen based artist Ade Adesina RSA. Using Ian's original prints as a starting point Ade develops his own creative response, often using a Dremel tool to build up a multitude of small holes on the surface of the block resulting in his distinctive tonal imagery.
Born in Nigeria, Ade had never seen Whitby Abbey when he produced 'Whitby Translated', using only Ian's original print as his initial source.
