Artist Statement.

I would describe myself as a landscape painter. My work has developed over the years from figurative watercolours, into vivid and colourful abstract, mixed media paintings, inspired by the energy of coastal landscapes.

I am driven to make images that express the sensation of what it feels like to be in the landscape, capturing the colour, light, atmosphere, and space. I am drawn to places where the elements meet – the sea clashing with the cliffs, and places of natural wildness and beauty.

My paintings are also a subconscious record of my emotions and state of mind that I am experiencing at that time. I wander through the landscape, sketchbook in hand, furiously drawing what I see and feel.

Processes are important to me, and I often use layering, mixed media, scraping and splattering in my mark making, as a means of communicating my feelings about the energy and space of the landscape.

I studied architecture at Kingston Polytechnic and my passion for visiting art galleries has never waned, as they serve as an endless source of inspiration.

My work is influenced by the shapes, colour and imagery of artists such as Matisse, Dufy, Diebenkorn, and Lanyon.

In summary: my paintings are spatial, sensual, colourful, elemental and an endeavour to capture the essence of a landscape in an abstract manner.

An internationally renowned luthier for the past 45 years, I successfully combine my two passions – fine art and guitar making. For more information on my guitar making business Kinkade Guitars.

Jonathan Kinkead