Here's our interview with Paul Swan who is from Ramsbury, near Marlborough, Wiltshire...
Please describe your artwork style
I am a designer maker working in wood.
What’s your background?
After a varied career in business, I am now a full time designer maker.
How long have you been an artist?
Around 25 years overall. What started as a hobby is now a full time passion.
Who or what are your biggest influences?
I am influenced by many 3D art forms – particularly ceramics, architecture and sculpture.
How have you developed your career?
Mostly through participating in exhibitions and the Marlborough Open Studios event.
Which current art world trends are you following?
I am particularly intrigued by the work going on in the USA, where ‘wood art’ has long been established, and where there are a number of galleries only presenting wood art.
Where do you create your work?
I have a workshop/studio at home.
What do you feel is the role of the artist in society?
To open people’s eyes to the wonders of form and texture, and in my case to introduce people to the stunning variety of wood available around the world.
What techniques / mediums do you use?
I use a lathe a great deal, as well as traditional box making and carving skills.
Which is more important to you, the subject of your painting, or the way it is executed?
My aim is to always produce something that is a little surprising, that is great both visually and to the touch.
How do you feel when you are letting your emotions loose on the canvas?
When I am in full flow, I am totally engaged in the creative process and time slips by very quickly!
What project are you working on now?
A new carved and textured series of boxes, combining two woods in a startling fashion.
Any current or up-coming exhibitions?
I will be participating in Marlborough Open Studios in July and at their preview show in June.
Where do you find your ideas for your work?
From nature and from many other artistic disciplines. I also follow the creation of new work by some of the best artists working in wood.
Is there an artwork you are most proud of? Why?
Usually, that is the last piece I have made!
How do you know when a work is finished?
When I feel that there is nothing else I can do to improve it.
What is your most important artist tool? Is there something you can’t live without in your studio?
My imagination! I am endlessly asking ‘What if ‘? It would also be difficult for me to create work without glue!
Is there an element of art you enjoy working with most? Why?
I love the need for total focus in the creative process. Since every piece of wood is different, I also love the element of discovery involved.
