My artist story
Hello there! I'm Hedley Smyth, an academic by career and a painter by heart. Nestled in picturesque Berkshire, I spent my days as a Professor at UCL, immersed in the world of academia, until I semi-retired and returned to my creative passion. But let me rewind a bit.
Back in my youth, life dangled the opportunity of Art School in front of me. Did I seize it then? Not then, no. But I made a promise to myself, a whisper in the winds of time, "I will take up painting one day."
Fast forward to 2016, and destiny tapped me on the shoulder. It was time. I dipped my brushes back into the world of art, easing into a flexible retirement, carving out a day each week for my refound passion. And that day, turned out to be "the day."
With a studio nestled in the artistic hub of Newbury, run by the kind-hearted Lenny Cornforth, I dove headfirst into the colourful chaos of creation. Soon enough, my canvases bore witness to my journey, each stroke a testament to my returned artistic fervour.
Come January 2019, I proudly unveiled my inaugural solo exhibition, a milestone marking the convergence of dreams deferred and dreams realised.
Nowadays, you'll find me nestled in my creative sanctuary at Wharfside Studio, where every brushstroke reveals tales of urban scenes and rural landscapes.
My art, much like life itself, dances between two worlds. The first, a vibrant ode to urban atmosphere, where layers of newspaper and tissue mingle on canvas, echoing the pulse of city life. From the bustling streets of London to the neon-lit grandeur of Times Square, my work captures the essence of urban evolution and human connection.
But there's another side to my canvas, a quieter melody inspired by the tranquil vistas, including the north Norfolk coast. Here, sparse strokes meet with oil and acrylic, weaving a tapestry of timeless landscapes that speak to the soul.
As I stand before my easel, I draw inspiration from the masters who came before me—Monet's ethereal brushstrokes, Roualt's emotive depth, Pollock's chaotic energy, Rothko's transcendent hues, Giacometti's haunting figures, and the serene landscapes of David Milne—all guiding lights on my artistic journey.
So, whether you're drawn to the pulsating energy of the city or the serene whispers of the countryside, join me as we embark on a journey through paint and passion, where every brushstroke tells a story, and every canvas holds a piece of my passion.