Ken has a background in graphic design, started painting in 1990 and began exhibiting 1994. He works in oils and enjoys all types of painting but concentrates mainly on still life – quiet studies of fruit, vegetables or flowers in natural light – pictures that bring a sense of peace to a room.
Ken’s signature style is a crisp, fresh presentation of still life, bringing a contemporary feel to a very traditional subject matter. His use of light brings to life and gives vitality to the subject at hand. Ken makes use of the natural light that flows into the studio, which means he works from life with the aid of a photograph (to capture the light and reflection at a particular time). The mono-tonal background provides a good contrast to the subject, which is usually presented in rich, striking colours. One of his trademarks is the inclusion of a reflection in almost all of his vegetable and fruit studies, this demonstrates Ken’s skill and precision, and also achieves a balance in the composition.
The focus of each painting is solely the chosen subject, be it a row of apricots or a spotted jug, the objects themselves are given centre stage. Any hint of place or time is removed. This creates solitude and a sense of quiet in each piece allowing the viewer room to reflect on the remarkable use of colour and precise technique. As the subjects are strictly life size, a sense of trompe-l’oeil (deceiving the eye) occurs, it is as though the fruit could be picked right from the canvas.
Ken’s latest work continues to impress as it moves away from small pieces to larger canvases with detailed groupings of antique pottery, fruits and flowers. The highly reflective quality of the chosen pottery allows Ken’s virtuoso skill in painting reflection come through.
Ken’s paintings are represented in private collections in New Zealand, Australia, America and Great Britain. He has won many well-known and respected art awards, including the Mainland Art Award and Waitakere Art Award.