Much of my work has a relationship with the past and its art. In paintings of landscape, interiors and still life I am trying to capture atmosphere through the careful observation of the effects of light and doing so also to achieve a sense of time as part of objective reality. All my pictures start in earth colours and develop as they go on until a tonal and chromatic equivalent of the intensity of seeing is achieved.
In new schemes of decoration and installations in historic interiors my main concern is to enhance what is already there with a contribution worthy of its setting and one that fulfils the clients’ brief. In churches this requires a proper understanding of theological meaning and liturgical need, and in any ancient place an active and inquisitive engagement with its history, character and aesthetic values. Pattern plays an important part in work of this kind and can have a remarkable grip on consciousness whether used for decoration or in its own right.
This website is a selective archive of work undertaken over the last few years. Most of the paintings and some of the drawings are now in private collections. All dimensions are in inches.
Contact: john@johnmaddison.co.uk
Galleries that show my work include:
The Jerram Gallery in Sherborne, Dorset
Chappel Galleries near Colchester
The Old Fire Engine House at Ely
Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries (Medal for services to the Society)
Honorary Doctor of Arts Anglia Ruskin University
Trustee of the Norfolk Churches Trust
Member of the Historic Churches Committee of the Diocese of East Anglia