Ian Mastin - Still Life

IAN MASTIN was born in Leicestershire in 1949.  His family subsequently emigrated to Australia and he grew up in Queensland. Ian had no art education during his schooldays and it was only in the mid 1980s that he began to sketch for recreation. Naturally gifted and with a discerning eye for detail, he was invited to exhibit his work in a Brisbane gallery where he first experienced success.  In 1991, he returned with his family to Britain, settling in East Lothian.  Remarkably,  it was here that he picked up a paintbrush for the first time and after a year of experimentation in fundamental techniques, he committed himself to painting full time. His early works were mainly watercolour and the subject matter varied but it was his discovery of Still Life in the traditional and classical style that gave him the direction he had been seeking and the passion to pursue his artistic goal of excellence in this genre.  He gains inspiration from many sources including Vermeer, the Flemish and Dutch schools of Still Life artists, exponents of trompe l'oeil such as William Hartnett and Jan van der Vaart and Masters of Candlelight , especially Godfried Schalcken and Joseph Wright of Derby.  He is oblivious to popular trends and paints for the satisfaction the creative experience affords.

Although he is A great admirer of oils, Ian's chosen medium is acrylic and he never ceases to tire of the challenge of apprehending that indefinable quality which breathes life and vibrancy into painting.  If crafted well, the simplest forms of subject matter have the potential  to arrest and delight the viewer.  An old, much loved and worn book can bring as much joy for him to paint as a much more complex composition. Indeed, his predilection is to engender a sense of appreciation in reflecting upon old, used, every day objects which have no intrinsic value except for the fond memories they evoke. 

After 10 years living and painting in Scotland, Ian and his wife decided to return to Australia and they are now resident in Queensland again.  Fortunately, he continued his association with Tolquhon and we are delighted to remain his main gallery in Scotland.  Ian will be at Tolquhon for the opening of his exhibition.