About Alan Stratford
My life as an artist really began when in 2002 I moved to Somerset from London, following an 18 year career in graphic design. In 2013 and opened my own art gallery in Wells - but my real passion has always been painting. In 2017 after selling the gallery, I made the move to Cornwall to paint fulltime. Inspired by the beauty of the Cornish landscape and the everchanging drama of the sea and sky, I endeavour to create works which are both evocative and atmospheric.
In 2009 I was delighted to win the 'Artist of the Year' award sponsored by Artists and Illustrators magazine for my painting entitled 'The Certain Smile'. The painting of a young woman was a complete departure from my usual semi-abstract landscapes and has led to numerous commissions. I love to explore new subject matters and painting styles, either figurative or abstract, continually striving for the perfect balance of aesthetic appeal and artistic merit.