 Although i live in Norfolk and lived here most of my life, my family are originally from London. My grandad, Charlie, was born in Poplar, East London. An avid painter, he often painted the views he grew up with around the Thames and the city. Painted long before the regeneration of the Docklands area, the paintings capture a different time and era than the London we know today.  |
| Tower Bridge water colour, Charles Stevens. |
One of his most memorable paintings for me as a child, was a painting of St Paul's (not pictured). I remember being fascinated by the painting, and ever since been captured by the cathedral's imagery and thought it would be a great subject for a print. Visiting the cathedral last year, i noticed how difficult it is to get an overall vista of the building, and thought it would be interesting to play with the different aspects of the building, by layering them to form an overall impression, rather than attempting a full layout of the cathedral.
8 comments:
What a watercolor! The whole thing is an inspiration--especially the sky and clouds. I do like your approach of layering the aspects of the cathedral--it makes for a stunning print. Thanks for the post!
How lovely to have a painting with a family history. And your architectural studies are wonderful, hope to see more :)
Absolutely stunning prints, I love the different views you have created. The watercolour is beautiful, I enjoyed reading the family history behind it.
Great images! Obviously artistic talent runs in your family - how lovely to have beautiful paintings by your father.
Thanks everyone :) My grandad's watercolours captured his love of the river really. Always lots of boats (including the old Thames barges) and sky, they captured a different time and pace of life : )
I can see where your talent came from. How wonderful to have such a painting!
Your St Paul's studies are equally impressive.
I think that layering the different aspects is such a fabulous idea. This is a smashing print, and reminds me of my days walking through the City to my job at Wapping. I love that beautiful watercolour too.
Now that explains your talent. Such inspiration to be surrounded with as a child. I love your views of such an iconic building.
My Mum's family come from Stepney/Whitechapel and Poplar too...
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