Featured Artist: Kevin Baker

My interest in painting is relatively new. Prior to painting my artistic outlet was photography. I have been taking photographs for over 40 years and still enjoy it when I get the opportunity. As all things in life, you learn as you go, hopefully that journey never ends.
I first thought seriously about painting about 18 months ago. The search for a local course or tuition was a success, finding an interesting introductory course comprehensive enough to give me a good idea if painting was for me or not. This turned out to be a great decision on a few surprising levels for me. Mainly confirming my interest in painting and providing the tuition I required to get started. Importantly it allowed me to meet likeminded people that provided encouragement and friendly advice. It was exciting to be around others exploring their creativeness.
This was where I first encountered watercolour. A challenging medium at the best of times. I was however struck by the special way that the paint reacts when it hits the water, I find this to be stimulating and exciting to watch and work with. By studying artist that I find interesting and exploring new techniques I am building my skills. This is allowing me to become more aware of what my style will be. However, i am aware that my journey still as a long way to go, but it is an enjoyable one. Currently I am studying a Swedish artist that caught my attention. There is a simplicity to their work that that appeals to me, the use of a limited pallet and often stark environments that still produce beautiful paintings.
I was introduced to the Hobsons Bay Arts Society by Sheree McCrum, who was the HBAS featured Artist for February. I have been attending Gaye’s Wednesday mornings Social Painting Group ever since. Once again it is not just about the painting, but the interesting people you meet. This has certainly been the case since joining Gaye on a Wednesday. Always a warm welcome, friendly advice and more than the odd laugh.
My body of work is still limited but growing and improving.
I first thought seriously about painting about 18 months ago. The search for a local course or tuition was a success, finding an interesting introductory course comprehensive enough to give me a good idea if painting was for me or not. This turned out to be a great decision on a few surprising levels for me. Mainly confirming my interest in painting and providing the tuition I required to get started. Importantly it allowed me to meet likeminded people that provided encouragement and friendly advice. It was exciting to be around others exploring their creativeness.
This was where I first encountered watercolour. A challenging medium at the best of times. I was however struck by the special way that the paint reacts when it hits the water, I find this to be stimulating and exciting to watch and work with. By studying artist that I find interesting and exploring new techniques I am building my skills. This is allowing me to become more aware of what my style will be. However, i am aware that my journey still as a long way to go, but it is an enjoyable one. Currently I am studying a Swedish artist that caught my attention. There is a simplicity to their work that that appeals to me, the use of a limited pallet and often stark environments that still produce beautiful paintings.
I was introduced to the Hobsons Bay Arts Society by Sheree McCrum, who was the HBAS featured Artist for February. I have been attending Gaye’s Wednesday mornings Social Painting Group ever since. Once again it is not just about the painting, but the interesting people you meet. This has certainly been the case since joining Gaye on a Wednesday. Always a warm welcome, friendly advice and more than the odd laugh.
My body of work is still limited but growing and improving.