Art by Simon Birtall

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About Me

I am a freelance artist, illustrator and web designer based in The Wirral in the North West of England.

I grew up in the seaside town of West Kirby, overlooking the Dee Estuary. Following completion of a foundation course at Wirral Metropolitan College, I studied Illustration at Falmouth School of Art. I remained in Cornwall for a further ten years before returning to the North West.

My painting technique has developed over the years, from initial studies of the work of the Impressionists and Post Impressionists to subsequent influences such as Sargent and Brangwyn.

I work on canvas, building up colour in multiple layers to create vibrant optical mixes, favouring scenes with striking contrasts of light and shadow. When time allows I work in oils. When working to tight deadlines I paint in acrylics.

I have held two solo exhibitions of my landscape paintings. I am a member of the Wirral Society of Arts, Deeside Art Group and Wirral Art.

I enjoy listening to old and unfashionable music such as The Beatles, The Kinks, Fairport Convention, John Mayall and his Bluesbreakers, CSN, Joni Mitchell, Nick Drake, Richard Thompson and John Martyn. I play acoustic guitar for my own amusement and enjoy listening to classic comedy.

A sports fan, I particularly enjoy following the fortunes of England's cricket team on Test Match Special.