Artist Spotlight Graham Twyford - Lakes Artist
- Barrow Society Of Artists
- Mar 19
- 5 min read
Updated: Jun 9
I was lucky enough this week to catch up with acclaimed Local Artist Graham Twyford, where all the magic happens in his new home art studio. Graham has been a long-time member of Barrow Society of Artists and also acts as the Society's Art Advisor. It was a treat to listen to the artist's knowledge on art and how he approaches his work.
The Creation of an Artist
Graham was drawn to art at a young age and can't remember ever starting art; it was just a natural talent that he was passionate about. Phil Eaton ( Art teacher) at Barrow Boys Grammar School encouraged Graham to think about art as a career and introduced Graham to visiting art galleries at an early age (The Walker Gallery Liverpool and the Lady Lever Art Gallery Port Sunlight are ones Graham remembers fondly). He remembers from a class of very good artists only three boys - himself, Dave Myers and John Carling continued art into the Sixth Form.
On to Greater Things
Graham's school days ended, and he started a foundational degree at Lancaster Art College, moving to complete his degree at Goldsmiths in London.
The self portrait pictured is an early work by the Artist on Walney Beach where Graham grew up which he completed after taking A'Level Art.
He was followed to Goldsmiths in London the following year by his close friend from school, Dave Myers of Hairy Biker fame.
They shared a flat in Peckham, Del Boy country, on Asylum Road due to a Victorian asylum being at the end of the road.
Dave cooked or they ate out! They shared a passion for not just art but also bikes.
Julie, who became Graham's wife, purchased one of his early paintings. They first met during their school days: Julie eventually took on the role of being Graham's Personal Assistant and shares his enthusiasm for his art.
She fully supports his work, ensuring that the printing of the original artwork meets high standards in her home printing office.
Inspiration
The acclaimed artist is inspired by the Lake District, where he frequently walks. He has a passion for art history. His work is meticulously thought out and planned using many techniques from his favourite periods: Victorian 19th-century paintings and historic art techniques of the Pre-Raphaelites. His first commissions after completing his degree were paintings for Coalport collectible china plates.
This fantastic painting of St. George defeating the dragon was one of the paintings he completed for a commission by Coalport, who produced collector's plates.
He finds people like jigsaws more now, but the plates were completed in series of 12 in the 1990s and are still around and definitely collectible!
As a Teacher Himself
Graham has held painting classes in the past, and I myself can vouch for being inspired to paint by one of Graham's YouTube videos during lockdown. I was familiar with Graham's work and remember the first time I saw his work displayed in a shop in town; I wanted to walk into the painting and explore. That was probably more than 30 years ago. The dedicated artist's work still has this fascination, with so much to see, admire, remember, and explore in each painting he undertakes.
The painting depicting mist rising in the Lake District, through trees but below the mountain peaks was created from memory. It was originally used as a demonstration for his keen followers.
Although he no longer runs classes himself, he continues to create demonstrations for Art Societies and Groups throughout the North-west from Scotland to Lytham St. Annes and all the towns and villages in between
Graham possesses extensive and fascinating knowledge of art and painting techniques, stemming from his interest in Art History. He also uses this expertise to restore valuable paintings as a kind of paid hobby.
There's always a story to share about Art or the process of creating art as he guides people through his latest thoroughly researched demonstration.
Including a funny tale about setting up on a pair of stepladders outside a ladies toilets to get the right angle for his sketch of as popular Lake District pub. Which turned into one of his best selling works. The man knows no limits to his dedication and eye for detail.
Home Work & Home Working
Graham is however, more likely to be found in his home studio completing paintings and commissions or round and about sketching work as groundwork for his current or planned work.
Below are two works being worked on currently one a painting using scumbles and glazing and one a pencil drawing on hot pressed watermarked handmade Fabriano paper. The green studio wall is also a prop it enhances the colours used in the painting so that Graham can get the tones and atmospheres he is creating without being flattened by a white wall.
You just know what ever Graham turns his hand to it will be fantastic.
What's Next
I am looking forward to seeing his entries for the Lakes Artists this year and hopefully an entry into the Barrow Society of Artists Exhibitions planned for this year too.
Also in the pipe line is a Retrospective Exhibition at the Dock Museum featuring Graham's works over the years. So keep your eyes open for when the dates get finalised and this Exhibition celebrating a local celebrity artist takes place !
We are in the process of developing plans as a Society to establish a Graham Twyford Award in recognition of our esteemed Art Advisor. This initiative will include prizes for students from local senior schools and colleges, aiming to promote art participation in educational institutions. Stay tuned for more updates!
Graham Twyford's work can be viewed on his website click the link Graham Twyford
Its also available from many outlet Galleries within the Lake District and Barrow's own Home Images on Duke St in Barrow
Blog created by Marina
Chair of Barrow Society of Artists
Great insight into a wonderful artist
Always love Graham’s demos and marvel at his knowledge about art.