Artist Malcolm Ashman has signed with a Putney gallery to show his work over the coming years.
The Russell Gallery, in Lower Richmond, has featured a number of British artists and is delighted to have Mr Ashman on board.
“He’s a really special artist,” said director Sarah Russell-Walling. “Our reputation as a Modern British gallery has attracted many artists and we’re pleased that Malcolm has joined them.”
The Bath artist has already had two shows at the Russell Gallery this year and there are plans for more, including a solo exhibition in 2011.
Mrs Russell-Walling added: “Eight people so far have bought Malcolm’s work, including a painting for £1,800. Oddly enough, most people are from Putney but have houses in the country.”
Mr Ashman had a short spell at Somerset College of Art but decided a self-taught approach would suit him better.
He said: “I've drawn and painted for as long as I can remember, even before school. When I was three or four I always wanted to be an artist. I spent some time at college, though not in fine art painting but graphic design, and that wasn't for me.”
He has also illustrated a number of books, most notably Alice’s Adventures In Wonderland. He has also produced a number of limited edition prints for the Royal Academy.
“I'm only beginning to know Putney but obviously the river is of great interest," he said. "I'm influenced by everything I see and, when I was invited to show my work in Putney by Sarah, I couldn’t say no.
“Oil painting is what interests me most, both landscapes and, more recently, paintings of people. I admire all creative people - artists, filmmakers, writers and musicians.”
