Biz Buzz show Jean Wolfe interviews artists after Bucks Art Week

Bucks Art Week allows artists working in their studios to meet the public, and for the public to have access to working artists.  Two artists who took part in Bucks Art Week came into the studio to talk about their experience of the week.  Marlow FM Artist They brought paintings in too, so that listeners on the internet could see on the webcam.

Robert Stuart paints in pastels

Robert Stuart took part in his first Bucks Art Week, and is still in his first year as a full time artist. The week was very successful  and he enjoyed talking to the visitors and made a first non-UK sale.  Robert works in pastel which suits his temperament as there is no need to wait for paint to dry, and the paint is applied immediately.  Robert brought a painting into the studio entitled “Ironstone” which referred to the fact that the chalks used in pastels are the most ancient and direct method of painting.  Ancient man took the earth and mixed it with liquid to make a paste for the cave walls.  Iron of course gives a whole range of brown and yellow colour ranges.  He has always loved painting but only been a professional painter for 6 months.

Keith Beckett-Hester by contrast, has been a painter all his life.  A teacher at school recognised his talent and suggested he went on to train in High Wycombe.   He paints in oils and acrylics using very fine brushes.  Keith brought two paintings into the radio studio.  One of Bisham church with the river in the foreground, and one of the woods in Bisham.  Keith is particularly inspired by trees and woods.  In his childhood he was able to explore the woods all day long and this fascination has lasted his whole life.  Keith paints in oils and acrylics using very fine brushes.  He works slowly and intuitively.

We discussed the sources of inspiration, and how it is possible to make a living as an artist.  Robert, who is an experienced computer software expert brings his business skills to his work as an artist, while Keith has established a good reputation over many years.  Both agreed that they thought there were lots of opportinities for artists nowadays.