In the Studio: John Petch • dot-art

This month dot-art speaks to artist John Petch.

John Petch, born in Liverpool now living in Cheshire, trained to teach art in Liverpool, working in a number of local schools. He says:

“My work investigates the relationship between line and space. Challenging how the brain perceives and makes sense of the difference between what is understood and unfamiliar. I began painting in the mid 1960s moving from Op Art to Geometrical Abstraction being inspired by geometric imagery and pattern. My paintings invite the viewer to be drawn into a conversation from a simple statement of pattern to the relationship between art and mathematical special awareness.”

Can you describe your style of art?

I would describe myself as an abstract artist. I started painting during the Op Art and Geometric Abstraction movement. I have used the foundations of geometric abstract art in my current practice using context of the source image to connect to the viewer. I paint in a hard edge way with pure colour, relationship of space line and colour is important to create a balance, maybe with some unknown.

I like to be accurate with perspective and use of tone (light and dark) to represent colour change. I use architectural forms especially from the city depicting how the old merges with the new. I hope to capture the energy and movement of a busy city.

Which medium do you work with and what do you like about it specifically?

Currently I paint in acrylic. Acrylic is a thickened form of water colour, it suits my practice and style of art because it dries quickly and covers large areas with a flat colour. Acrylic works well with abstract art with a great range of colours.

To keep a vibrance in my work I usually paint without mixing straight from the tube. I can also build up areas in relief I encourage people to run their fingers over my paintings. I started painting in secondary school with oils and water colour. My dad bought me a really nice box containing tubes of oil paint which got me interested in taking art more seriously. I have also painted in water colour.

Can you talk us through your process? Do you begin with a sketch, or do you just go straight in? How long do you spend on one piece? How do you know when it is finished?

Most of my work begins with either a photograph or sketched ideas. I may use a section of photograph which interests me and presents some challenge to imagination. I decide on the size of canvas. I then make a full size drawing same dimensions as the canvas by transferring the image by using a grid. The full size drawing is on Fabriano paper which is quite heavy and can be used as a template to draw out on the canvas.

I start with the darker colours. Sometimes I have a strong idea of the direction but often develop as I progress. I use masking tape to get hard straight lines and remove when paint is dry. It takes on average about 6 weeks to do a painting with about 40 total hours. I sometimes have three or four paintings on the go. I have to work on the nearly finished painting neatening lines or dealing with colour bleeding. I finally stand back and check I’m happy with the finished work.

When did you begin your career in art?

After leaving school I went to teacher training college to become a teacher which included art. I started to paint more when I retired and consider myself a full time artist.

Who or what inspires your art?

I have been inspired by many artist from the past especially those in the art movements I am familiar

with such as Victor Vasarely and Bridget Riley. My surroundings and my interests inspire me. I value the support of those around me.

Why is art and creativity important to you?

For me art is many things it is way of expressing how I see the world, I feel a great sense of achievement and give value to my creative self. It gives me a sense of purpose and helps mental wellbeing.

What do you gain from being a member with dot-art?

Being with dot-art has meant my work can be seen, it has provided me with opportunity for commissions and sales. To meet other artists and have paintings and print exhibited. The more I paint the more I can explore my practice.

What does it mean to be an artist in the Liverpool City Region?

Liverpool my home town is an amazing place, I feel part of the culture and change that is taking place.

What are you working on at the moment?

On my last commission assignment I produced a number of sketches and photos of Liverpool One and had three unused so decided to transfer to canvas. I am on my final canvas and hope to complete soon. I am always looking with a keen eye to see the potential and what might inspire me.

What was the best advice given to you as an artist?

Be self-critical, paint what interests you, find what you are good at, be open to explore be challenged and new thinking. If you are stuck leave the work on one side and come back when you are ready. Keep your brushes, hands and work surface clean. Believe in yourself and finally there is nothing new only different ways of seeing things.

Discover more of John Petch’s work on our online shop!