As a young upstart, I sought illustration work in the book trade. I sent out samples of my work, including my version of the Pied Piper of Hamelin.. As well as a gentle scene from the natural world. Here are three book illustrations from an early commission, describing: The good guys revealing themselves to … More Illustrating Books
They say two heads are better than one, so this week we are featuring two portrait drawings I made of the daughter of some friends. The first is fairly naturalistic. I like the open innocence of the gaze. Head of K. II by Barry Trower (1986). The second is more composed and stylized, but I … More Portraits of K.
This week we are presenting two oil sketches on the same theme, the painter and his model. I applaud the way this artists lines echo the curves of his model. Mostly done in black,orange and browns, this one is full of textures, as it was painted over an autumnal landscape, which you can still see … More Painter and Model
I made hundreds of charcoal drawings in the 1980’s. This is a favourite theme, allowing me to explore contrasts of various kinds. I am proud to have drawn expressive form from such minimal means. ‘Til next week, Barry
My actors are artists, facing uncertainty in an indifferent world with a stoic gaze. They make me think of Penelope and Odysseus. They were painted in acrylic over a photolithographic landscape which shows through faintly in parts of the image. I feel that the muted colours here allow the swift lines to play off one … More Actors
This week we are putting on a magic show! Give your ticket to the lovely magicians assistant and she will take you to your seat, the show is about to begin! Here we are on stage with the great magician himself, about to pull a rabbit out of his hat. Abra Cadabra and… Presto! To the … More Magic Show
There’s still a little colour in the few remaining leaves. A walk in nature can often restore the spirit in troubling times. Happy trails to you, Barry
As winter approaches, we feel the Sun’s gaze turning away from us. This week we will again publish a drawing and the painting it inspired. Planetary bodies take root as vegetation. Sunflower Girl and Cactus Man? The painted version with more refined, abstract forms. To peaceful days and nights, Barry
One of the most difficult things I have experienced as an artist is to attempt to make a portrait of someone knowing that eventually they will walk around to your side of the easel and see what you have made of them. Here are some honest efforts from days gone by… A picture of someone … More Drawing People
A third foray into a recurring theme of mine, love and lust in the age before humankind. These two pictures were made in quick succession. Our first offering this week is wild and loose with flat washes of colour and quick almost frantic brushwork. I like the separation of the primary colours here. The second … More Nymph and Satyr Part III
Barry Trower 