Nicholas Robertson
Cheltenham, United Kingdom
Artist Nicholas Robertson paints figurative works and portraits that combine a strong classical foundation with a distinctly contemporary restraint. "To recast emotions in texture, colour and pattern and to make it still, perhaps this is a measure of a successful painting," says Nicholas. Born in Gloucester and now living and working in Cheltenham, UK, he began his career in a decorative studio producing murals and mosaics, an experience that shaped both his technical skill and understanding of artistic craft. He later earned a graduate art degree from Gloucester College of Art, where he completed a DipAD in 1972. Nicholas works from a dedicated, light-filled studio in Cheltenham with views across the Cotswold Hills, using acrylic to allow for experimentation and intuitive decision-making. Outside the studio, he enjoys hiking the Cotswolds, visiting galleries, going on research trips, and spending time at his local pub.
Artist Statement
I was born in Gloucester and now live and work in Cheltenham, UK. In my early years, I worked in a decorative studio producing murals and mosaics, an experience that gave me a strong foundation in art as well as an appreciation for its commercial side. I enjoy working in acrylic because it allows me to experiment freely, and the ability to make quick changes is essential when exploring new possibilities.
Like many figurative artists, I am deeply drawn to drawing and painting the human form, as it is inseparable from human behavior. I am interested in more than simple representation. I am drawn to movement, the way light spills across contours, and the subtle physical details that reveal emotion. To translate feeling through texture, color, and pattern, and to hold it still, feels to me like the measure of a successful painting.
I observe constantly, wherever I am. Once, while waiting for a delayed flight at Lisbon airport, I spent time watching a woman with an intriguing face and occasional quirky gestures. Eventually, I used my small Canon camera to take a few photographs, thinking I was being discreet. She noticed, but seemed unconcerned, and the moment stayed with me as a quiet study in observation.
Like many figurative artists, I am deeply drawn to drawing and painting the human form, as it is inseparable from human behavior. I am interested in more than simple representation. I am drawn to movement, the way light spills across contours, and the subtle physical details that reveal emotion. To translate feeling through texture, color, and pattern, and to hold it still, feels to me like the measure of a successful painting.
I observe constantly, wherever I am. Once, while waiting for a delayed flight at Lisbon airport, I spent time watching a woman with an intriguing face and occasional quirky gestures. Eventually, I used my small Canon camera to take a few photographs, thinking I was being discreet. She noticed, but seemed unconcerned, and the moment stayed with me as a quiet study in observation.
Artist Background
Gloucester Collage of Art
Associate of Arts, 1972
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