21/06/2026
โจ ๐ฆ๐ข๐๐ โจ
I'm still slightly blown away by this one.
I had only just finished this painting the day before exhibiting it, so when someone told me they wanted to take it home, I don't think it had quite sunk in that somebody else might connect with it in the same way I had.
This piece was my attempt to capture not just an iconic building, but the energy, creativity, and character that it represents. Rather than focusing on architectural accuracy, I wanted to create something vibrant and expressive that reflected the optimism, diversity, and creative spirit of Birmingham.
The Library felt like the perfect subject. For me, it's more than a recognisable landmark. It's a place where stories, ideas, learning, and creativity come together. A symbol of a city that continues to inspire me and one that truly lives up to the phrase: "๐ง๐ต๐ถ๐ ๐ฐ๐ถ๐๐ ๐บ๐ฎ๐ธ๐ฒ๐ ๐ฎ๐ฟ๐."
Created using heavy-bodied acrylic paint and oil pastel, I built up layers of texture and colour to give the piece a slightly three-dimensional quality. I love how the surface catches the light, revealing different details and marks as you move around it.
As someone who returned to painting after nearly twenty years away, it genuinely means so much when someone loves a piece enough to want to live with it and display it in their home. Knowing that something you've created has connected with another person in that way is a very special feeling, and one that I don't take for granted.
Thank you to the wonderful collectors who have given this painting its new home. ๐
The original has now sold, but I've had quite a few people ask about prints, so I'm pleased to say that limited edition prints will be available soon. Watch this space.
AbstractArt ImpressionistArt MixedMediaArt ThisCityMakesArt WestMidlandsArtist