Richard P Cook RBA

Statement

As a portrait and landscape painter I enjoy working in oils and watercolour. I find portraiture fascinating as a means of exploring the form and personality of the sitter. My interest in landscape is based on my enjoyment of light, atmosphere and views, particularly in England and Italy.

Methodology

I prefer to work from life, often drawing on the spot, making colour notes in the case of landscape or even very basic watercolour sketches to catch the light, colour and atmosphere. If time is short, I have no hesitation in using my camera as a sketchbook. Although it is important to interpret photographs, not just produce a slavish copy. For oils, I enjoy working on acrylic gesso primed canvas - linen preferably, with a fairly fine tooth. Drawing basic geometry of the composition in charcaol or soft pencil is the first job, after which I strengthen the line with dark umber. I build up the paint, thick and thin, with hog hair and sable, using a cloth for blending. Landscapes can take days or weeks depending on how much I nag at them. Portraits can take longer because its very important to me and the sitter to get a likeness that pleases us both.

Bio

1949 Born in Grimsby

1968-71 Diploma in Art and Design at Maidstone College of Art

1972-75 Postgraduate Certificate in Fine Art, Royal Academy of Arts

1978 Elected a Member of the Royal Society of British Artists