Simon Fowler

Simon was born in Bristol and is completely self- taught. He started painting in his early teens and landscape painting was and remains his passion. His understanding of the landscape comes from his previous work in horticulture and landscaping coupled with his love of caving, which Simon says gives him ‘an intimate connection and respect of nature’.  Although he has only been living in Devon for the last five years he has found his artistic shrine, as many other artists in the past have, in the scenery of Dartmoor. Consequently he has spent many hours studying its topography and climate to better understand his subject and develop his craft.

He works mainly in the medium of oil on board. This enables him to achieve colour tones that elude an artist painting on canvas .In particular he has introduced a range of Italian pigments into what could be described as a traditional English palette. This allows a faster build up of layers, and a fusion of colour creating a luminosity that is rare and compelling. His aim, which he achieves is to place the viewer in the place- to feel and see what has inspired him. 

There are two artistic influences that radiate from his work. Firstly, that of Edward Lear, an artist who painted in a clear and brightly lit style. This was enhanced by perspective and the fresh use of colour. The second artist was Joseph Farquharson who used bold colours and produced simple scenes with energy and vitality. 

In summary we are presented with an artist whose vision of the Westcountry landscapes   underline his deep attachment to the area. Simon Fowler’s art represents a new talent that Wildwood Arts is delighted to introduce and promote. In addition, this talent will translate into a store of value in the future.