Island marine artist, James Bartholomew, has just completed a large scale work, 40″ x 80″ of two J-Class boats racing, called Spirit Of Sail.
A work of that scale is pretty interesting in itself, as is the fact that it’s going into Sotheby’s for auction near the beginning of December.
What makes this a story that VentnorBlog is really interested in, is that the process of creating the painting, was videoed.
The eight week process has been compressed into less than seven minutes, showing the large blank canvas with initial outline sketches of the boats appearing on the screen.
It’s fascinating to see the layers of sea building up, providing the depth and complexity that is, the sea.
James told us that the larger the canvases are, the harder the paintings are, as you have to take into account the drying times.
He’s had an interesting past, starting with serving in the Royal Marines followed by a time as personal protection for Mohamed Al Fayed. It was when he left that life that he decided to start earning a living from painting and was overcome by a strong feeling that he says was “as if the heavens opened up.” It was then that he realised that he could make a living from painting.
The Spirit of Sail is going under the hammer on 9 December at Sotheby’s, New Bond Street, as are two other of James’ paintings.
The video was shot by James’ son, Lee, who also composed and performed the background music. Incidentally, he is a member of Island band, The Majortones.
James Bartholomew
Tesda, Binstead Hall
Quarr Road, RYDE
Isle of Wight
UK
PO33 4EL
