Landscapes Art Gallery and Studio, Dumfries.

John Clark was born 1952 in Dumfries Scotland. Completely self-taught he draws inspiration in the main from the beautiful landscape of S.W.Scotland. Through his art he conveys the colours of the changing seasons and abundant subject matter that is to be found in Dumfries & Galloway. Although he sometimes uses colour notes and drawings to assist his landscape work, pressures on time and the unpredictable climate has led him to embrace digital technology. Like many artists, using digital studies, he can amass a sizable amount of reference material in a relatively short period of time to use in the comfort of his studio.

The gathering of digital imagery allows him to study a subject from many perspectives - the way a shadow falls across a path will change from dawn to dusk as do the colours on the landscape on which the light falls. It also allows the capture of images from unusual vantage points and angles where conventional outdoor painting methods would be impossible. He may visit a scene several times before deciding on the best approach and only when he has sufficient information will he approach his client to discuss ideas for composition, lighting and suggestions that will enhance the finished work.

This may include the inclusion of a figure to create a sense of perspective,the removal of an ugly pylon,washing blowing on a line to suggest movement. Laptop technology is particulary useful in commission work as he can discuss ideas with the client before committing to canvas. With artistic licence and no small amount of skill he will spend as long as it takes to finish the artwork which is not only beautiful but an investment that can be handed down through the generations. If the inspiration takes him he may write a poem to accompany the finished work adding further dimension to his work.

The recent study of the boat 'The Maid Iris' was completed very recently and is a good example of the artist's fascination for working boats as well as those that have been abandoned. Many years ago he fished off the 'Maid Iris' when it was used to take sea anglers out on the Solway. The boat has changed a bit since it was used for angling and can be seen moored when not in use at the beautiful village of Kippford.

Occasionally he will complete work from studies taken from further affield. 'Rendezvous at the Snow Cap Cafe' is a good example of this. The painting shows two classic American cars parked at an old cafe along route 66 - the suggestion in the title is thought provoking - who is meeting illicitly in the old cafe? The answer is open to many interpretations.

A long standing member of the Dumfries & Galloway Fine Arts Society and a regular contributor to the popular Harbour Gallery in Kirkcudbright his work can be found in many mixed exhibitions with other prominent artists in South West Scotland including Jane Gibson and many others. A selection of his work is always on display in Ottersburn Gallery. His books and prints are available for purchase direct from this site, Landscapes Gallery, Gracefield Art Centre Dumfries or Dumfries & Galloway Libraries.

The Ltd Edition Prints are all good quality lithographs and since launched in 1992 have found homes all over the world. Some high quality Giclee digital prints have recently been introduced to his portfolio. The print 'Safe Harbour' at Puerto Mogan, 'Wars o Independence' and 'Caulback' are good examples of this. Educated in Dumfries he left a full time engineering course at Dumfries Technical College in 1967 to join the ICI where he worked as a process operator for seven years. He subsequently joined the Prudential Assurance Comapny where he enjoyed a successful career as an agent and financial consultant for over twenty three years. As a result of downsizing he was offered a redundancy package which he accepted gratefully and went on to become an Independent Financial Adviser. He is still qualified in this field advising a small group of clients and friends. He combines this with his love of landscape painting and creative writing.

Married with two adult children he lives near Dumfries High School where he received his secondary education. Through his poetry and particularly in his love of painting, his work highlights the beautiful landscapes common to South West Scotland.

If you cannot find a painting or print to suit your taste on Landscapes website it might be worthwhile visiting World Classic Gallery on www.allartclassic.com to view a wide range of work and prints available from artists from all parts of the world. Alternatively visit Forex-Trading-Strategies.org - Business Resources
for a host of art related topics under the ARTS Tab.

He is very proud of his Scottish roots and is a member of the Dumfries Burns Howff Club and supports the Robert Burns Worldwide Federation. Some samples of his line drawings can be found in the famous Globe Inn in Dumfries, acknowledged as Roberts Burns' favourite hostelry. The popular hardback 'Sang O the Nith' published by Dumfries & Galloway Libraries and Archives in 1996 to commemorate the Bi-centenary of the death of Robert Burns has all but sold out. Within its covers are many full colour illustrations and line drawings by the artist. Subject to availability this book can be purchased direct from Dumfries and Galloway Libraries and Archives just log on to their website. Alternatively a few copies remain in Landscapes Gallery and can be purchased direct from the gallery. Cost £25.00 If posting is required a carriage charge will apply to this particular book of £4.00 UK. International orders vary but will be no more than £10.00 postage and packing.

When embarking on contemporary work he starts with a blank canvas and a clear mind letting his subconscious guide him to conclusions that can be both stimulating and exciting. There are many sides to John Clark's work some yet to be fully explored.