John Skinner

Born in London in 1959 it wasn’t until twenty years later, whilst living in Newcastle, that John Skinner began painting in earnest. With no formal training, save a miserable art ‘0’ level failure, John perfected a distinct technique and an unorthodox, against the rules approach to watercolours. manifesting itself in the uniquely jewelled quality that we see in his work.

John fronted minor cult pop outfit ‘The Shed. Indeed with regular air play and a feature on radio one he could well have chosen the stage, however when Ann Thwaite the acclaimed children’s book writer spotted his paintings, she together with publishers Andre Deutsch commissioned John to illustrate her latestbook ‘ Amy and the Night-time Visit. John accepted and that was the end of pop stardom. The book was well received, John being short listed for a prestigious national award.

John took on an array of jobs, working extensively in film and Television. Spitting Image and Walt Disney were among his impressive list of credits. The chances are you will have seen his work illuminating your television screens. 

It was the summer of 1995, when John took a short holiday in Devon, that he was beguiled by the beauty of the region and decided to stay.   John can often be seen roaming the estuary, moor land and coastal paths of the area, his love for running comes in useful (he is the captain of one of Devon’s top road running clubs)

His paintings are now a result of what John loves doing the most ‘painting for people’ he calls it ‘and after all that's what its all about isn’t it.’

John Skinner - River Reflection II £120.00