Artistic influence down the centuries

Artistic influence down the centuries continues to inspire our artists at Life: Full Colour. Such is the case with Andrew Jenkin, a professional watercolour artists who is featured in the next solo exhibition at the gallery in Palas St, Caernarfon.

Masterful Illustrator

Arthur Rackham, a masterful illustrator known for his fantastical and detailed works. He is recognised as one of the leading figures during the Golden Age of British book illustration. Rackham’s work is noted for its robust pen and ink drawings, which were combined with the use of watercolour, a technique he developed due to his background as a journalistic illustrator.

Realism blended with fantasy

Rackham’s influence lies in his distinctive ability to blend realism with the fantastical. His illustrations are often steeped in folklore and fairy tales. They are characterised by their meticulous detail, fluid lines, and atmospheric shading. Contemporary watercolour artist Andrew Jenkin – in his new solo show at Celf Palas – draws from Rackham’s techniques. With his use of delicate washes and method of layering transparent colours, Andrew achieves a depth and ethereal quality in his paintings.

The Pre-Raphaelites

The Pre-Raphaelite painters, celebrated for their vivid, intricate, and emotive art, have also been an influence for Andrew. Their technique of using bright, clear colours and attention to detail has encouraged Andrew to enhance the luminosity of his paintings.

By integrating Rackham’s detail and the Pre-Raphaelites’ vibrant realism, contemporary watercolour artist, Andrew Jenkin creates evocative artworks that resonate with today’s audience.

Andrew Jenkin – artist, author, illustrator

Andrew Jenkin is an artist, author and illustrator. He works mainly in watercolour, depicting landscapes and illustrating scenes from British folklore. Andrew has written and illustrated two books about British folklore.  ‘The History & Legends of Castle Hill, Huddersfield’ (2017) and ‘The Curse of the Lambton Worm’ (2009).

I look forward to introducing you to Andrew Jenkin’s latest collection at Celf Palas on Saturday 29^th June. Opening reception from 2-5pm at 6 Palas Street, Caernarfon.

Sara McKee FRSA, Curator