Early retirement led to a brush with art

A GRAPPENHALL man who took early retirement after a career in IT is making a name for himself in the art world.
Working from home, James Lavott has already held a number of exhibitions at local art venues, producing works in many styles over the last 12 months, including portraiture, surreal, abstract, semi-abstract, figurative, etc.
He said: “I am keen to remain versatile, not wishing to be restricted creatively by one particular style.”
His recent works are in a semi-figurative style, inspired by the hustle and bustle that usually accompanies dining out at wine bars or restaurants.
The painting technique used is constructed from a number of sketches and ideas that are transferred to the canvas. Oil paints are layered using a pallet knife, and more often than not then removed to reveal sub-layers, which develop the vibrancy, movement and tonal overlays.
Specific areas of focus are developed using brush work which, in contrast to the knife application, helps create the more focussed experiences. Regardless of the subject matter, the artwork remains fluid and presents things as they are experienced rather than viewed specifically.
James Lavott’s works can be seen at Studio Art in Warrington, The Home Restaurant, Great Oak Farm business centre, Magg Lane Lymm, Saatchi Online Gallery at www.saatchi-gallery.co.uk and the Dot-art gallery in Liverpool, at www.dot-art.co.uk
It can also be seen at James’ own website, www.lavottgallery.co.uk
Picture is one inspired by the hustle and bustle of a restaurant…”Mind that hot tea.”