Artist in the Spotlight - Mike Weeden
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Mike Weeden (55) has been living in Wick for around six years. He is employed as a delivery driver for the Co-op but is also a painter, working with oils most recently.
How did you become an artist (maybe you always have been) / are you self-taught or have you studied in a particular field?
Having studied art history since about age 12, I decided seven years ago to try it for myself. I have been painting seriously for five years now. I’m teaching myself, mainly through trial and error, finding solutions and openings as they present themselves. Drawing is so important and my time with the Wick drawing group (a highly talented bunch) continues to prove invaluable.
Have you exhibited your work? Where?
I have been represented by David Gunning at Todmorden Fine Art in Lancashire for five years and have regular shows there. I’ve had exhibitions in Edinburgh, Yorkshire and of course locally.
What inspires / motivates you?
I am inspired a great deal by the wonderful artists of the mid-20th century. They only scratched the surface and I am keen to further their legacy. Certainly, relocating to Caithness, a unique county, has been an important motivational element.
Are there common themes in your work / what are they?
I suppose the figure dominates really, but landscape features often in my work. I go through periods where colour is a priority but can just as readily be driven to concentrate on tonal aspects but, drawing is the main thing.
Who is your favourite artist and why?
Willem de Kooning for a level of observation and interpretation that but for the evidence would be almost beyond belief. I award a medal of gratitude to the remarkable Jankel Adler, because of him I have a list of favourites a mile long! I must mention Keith Vaughan, only now claiming his place as one of the all-time greats.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Having work bought by an important corporate collection and paintings acquired for the Beauchamp Collection, Portsmouth University, have been notable highlights so far for me.
Which work are you most proud of and why?
That is difficult. For me when a painting is done and gone I rarely think about it again. I am always delighted when I get feedback from collectors though and enjoy discussing their pieces with them.
What are your hopes for the future?
Other than improving my observational and drawing abilities, I just hope that things carry on as they are. I am eternally grateful for the interest shown in my work.
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