British Wildlife Artist Mike Kenyon

I am a Graphic Communication & Illustration student studying at Loughborough University. Painting used to be something that I did every day when I was younger, but, since moving away from home and pursuing my studies at university, it has become increasingly hard to find the time to put aside to paint. I have been trying to make a concerted effort to continue to pursue my passion for painting, the shown examples are some of the fruits of my labour. I would not have adopted this passion for painting if not for the support of my family and friends, offering words of encouragement and invaluable feedback.

All of these paintings you see here were produced in acrylic paint, my preferred media choice, on primed canvas boards and finished with varnish. Acrylic paint lends itself well to the technique I have developed for painting fur, a series of coats and washes. My favourite part of the process when I get round to painting the eyes of the animals, transitioning my painting from a lifeless form to something living.

My work predominantly focuses on British wildlife from in and around the Lake District, where I grew up, a constant source of inspiration for me. If you haven’t visited it yet then I would definitely recommend it, maybe now more than ever due to all the COVID-related travel restrictions. Whilst you’re there you may be able to find some of my work in a gallery or two. But, failing that you can always find me on Etsy. As well as British wildlife I have completed several commissions of people’s pets. I am very keen to take on commissions of any kind so please don’t hesitate to contact me. ~ Mike Kenyon