Simon Whittle PHH
Statement
I love painting the figure and cannot see it as a purely academic exercise without emotional content, but as an exploration of another person and my feelings about them. The richness of the surface of my paintings reflects my views of the complexity and intensity of human relationships.
Bio
Simon initially trained as an artist while living in Mexico in the 1970’s where he was then tutored by acrylic pioneer Toby Joysmith and attended life classes at the Academia San Carlos in Mexico City. He was much influenced by the strong light and colours of Latin America. After returning to England, Simon joined the Hesketh Hubbard Art Society in 1979, became Hon Treasurer in 1980 and has been an Officer of the Society ever since. He was elected President in 1991, and remains so today. He started printmaking in Maidstone in 1985 and went on to become a successful printmaker and master printer, editioning etchings for several artists for many years. Simon gained an MA in Paper Conservation at Camberwell College in 1997. In 2003 he was instrumental in setting up Originals, the Contemporary Printmaking Show at the Mall Galleries, and is one quarter of the organising committee of this increasingly successful annual exhibition. Simon was Vice Chair of the Artists Campaign for the Resale Right 1993 - 2005, and an artist Governor of the FBA 1997-2003. He lives and works in London.