top of page

Barry Bartles Artist Interview

with Donna Lowson 

June 2023

Today we delve deeper into what drives and inspires our artist friend Barry Bartles.

Can you provide an overview of your artistic background and journey?

​

My artistic journey started when I was eleven. A set of oil paints for Xmas and an old book on oil painting given to me set me off on a lifelong love of painting.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

 

 

What mediums do you primarily work with, and why did you choose them?

​

 I have tried all mediums over the years. I like pastels for portraits but oils and, more recently, acrylics are the main ones. Acrylics can now be very similar to oils and dry quicker.

 

How would you describe your artistic style or approach?

​

 My style is realism but not photo realism, as I still like my works to look like paintings. I respect hyperrealist artists but need more patience for weeks and months of intricate work.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

Could you walk me through the conceptual process behind some of your notable works?

​

 My concept is that I paint what I like. If I see something I like, I paint it, mainly from my photos, but often old black and white photos I find for nostalgic works. 

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

 

​

What themes or subjects inspire you the most?

​

 Landscapes and buildings are my main topics but also some character studies. I have done a few animal portraits for friends as well.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

Can you explain the techniques or methods you use to create your art?

​

 My technique is simple. I begin with a rough outline in pencil and then start painting.

 

Do any specific art movements, artists, or historical periods influence your work?

 I am influenced by JMW Turner, his use of light is fantastic, more recently by Jack Vetriano as I love the nostalgic deco studies, also the fact he was self-taught and disliked by the art establishment, he is copied a lot now, so I steer clear of doing similar themes.

 

How do you ensure that your artistic vision and style remain consistent across different projects?

​

 I use the same methods throughout. 

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

Can you talk about any challenges you've faced during your artistic career and how you overcame them?

​

The only challenge I faced was a long break from artwork for several years due to work commitments.

 

What is your favourite piece in your portfolio, and what makes it special to you?

​

 I don’t have one favourite. I have a couple that brings back memories of old Sheffield and a couple of steel working, as the light effects worked out well. 

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

Have you exhibited or sold your artwork before? If so, could you share some of those experiences?

​

 Never exhibited, only works sold are to friends who asked me to paint their pets. 

 

Do you have any particular goals or aspirations for your artistic career?

​

 At the age of 69, I don’t have any significant aspirations. I paint for pleasure, working in my conservatory or kitchen, which can be challenging. Therefore, I would like a well-lit spare room. 

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

 

​

What feedback or reactions have you received from viewers or clients in the past?

​

Most feedback is positive, as people recognise the places I paint.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

How do you consistently stay motivated and inspired to create new art?

 I paint when I am in the mood and relaxed. 

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

Can you talk about any ongoing or upcoming projects you're working on?

 There is nothing in the pipeline; however, if I see something I want to paint, I’ll get on with it.

 

What role do experimentation and exploration play in your artistic process?

 I enjoy experimenting with adding things to the paints to get either impasto, gloss, or high build.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

IMG_0222.jpg
bottom of page