I grew up beside the Thames Estuary with open Essex countryside around. Being able to roam the surrounding fields and rivers with freedom was reflected in my first approach to painting, predominantly landscape and marine and this approach has remained with me throughout my painting career.
Starting painting when very young, School followed by Art School and my first job as an illustrator. I became a fulltime painter in 2000. I was elected to the Wapping Group in 2008 and to the Chelsea Art Society in 2014.
Being elected to the Wapping Group meant the opportunity to paint alongside a Group of very talented artists every Wednesday, rain or shine (quite a lot of rain), by the City and River which is so much a part of my life. Although much has changed since the Wappers were founded, there are still lovely old boats and beautiful buildings which make Wednesdays so rewarding.
Painting plein air is a large part of my work, I enjoy the challenge and statements to be made in front of a subject. Working in Oil, Watercolour and Pastel, entirely dependent on the subject, some of my plein air works are left as a statement of time and place. Others are used as the basis for further exploring the subject if I feel that there is more to say. I am increasingly driven towards putting atmosphere as the main statement in my work and it has now become my prime reason for painting.
My work has been exhibited with the Royal Watercolour Society, The Royal Society of Marine Artists and the Royal Institute of Oil Painters. I am also a regular Exhibitor at the Chelsea Art Society and the Henley Royal Regatta.
My work is in private collections from China to the United States.
For more information please visit John’s Website www.johnkillens.co.uk
