Statement
Having my roots in classicism, I have recently been exploring contemporary takes and methods working with old master paintings. I often work with a traditional approach to oil painting and drawing and have more recently been exploring this combined with experimental film and sound work.
Within my most recent piece I have focused on a work by Caravaggio, ‘The calling of St. Matthew‘ in the Contarelli Chapel in San Luigi Dei Francesi, Rome. Experimenting with mixing film and two dimensional oil painting on canvas, I have been exploring the possibilities of where I can take this (also see ‘Supper at Emmaus’ piece within portfolio).
I often focus on figurative drawing and oil painting from life, documenting and keeping my work very close to first hand personal experiences. Having a great interest in art history and religious painting, I have at times attempted to address issues of faith, prayer, the eternal question of life in the context of death, and iconography within our lives today.
I studied under the late Robert Lenkiewicz 2000-02, was a finalist of 'Not the Turner Prize' 2004, and studied Lucian Freud's techniques in Tate Britain's basement studios during the period of his retrospective in 2002. I also spent time working closely with my friend the late painter Anthony Amos. At present, as well as working from my own painting studio in Totnes, I have been furthering my studies within the University of Plymouth, developing my understanding of how visual language works in our culture whilst experimenting and developing the possibilities of mixed media work.
Some film and sound work I make, driven by a process exploring experimentation, tends to have unpredictable, exciting outcomes. Writing my own scores, I developed a relationship between 'conventional' musicianship and experimental sound art practices. I have experimented at marrying these pieces with a form of abstract film. They tend to reflect emotional states in a self biographical way.
Alongside my studies at Plymouth I am a working self employed freelance artist, with over 12 years of business. I specialise mainly in commissioned oil painting, portraiture, mural work which often includes Trompe l'oeil, interior design and my own work.
I have a great love of spending time by the coast; walking, sketching, refreshing my spirit and being generally inspired by the elements here, leading me to paint from these experiences.
Contact Dan on 07773770625 www.danwheatley.com