Linda Sharman describes herself as an ‘impressionist’ painter; she works in acrylic, oil and pastels, creating light-filled visions of Venice and Norfolk. An exhibition of work by Linda Sharman starts at the Cank Street Gallery Leicester on 5th March 2018.
Linda Sharman painting in her studio
What does a typical day as an artist look like for you?
I work during the day, so often I paint late in the evenings with my two studio cats, who love to watch me paint. In the warmer months I love to get outside and explore and see the subtle changes in light which I often bring into my paintings.
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
Linda Sharman, 'Fading Light, Venice'
When I can communicate a feeling within a painting for others to understand and experience the memory of a place or time.
I feel that painting colour and light and is essential when trying to capture an atmosphere of a place.
What is the most challenging part of your work?
Linda Sharman, 'Light through the Storm'
I don’t necessarily find any specific part of my work challenging, but I'm always pushing myself harder and further to create new and exciting work.
How did you choose your current theme, if you have one?
My recent trip to Venice has influenced a series about the beautiful light and atmosphere there.
Linda Sharman, 'Evening Light, Venice' acrylic - exhibited at the 21st National Open Art Exhibition at the Oxo Tower, London
Do you have any essential materials or equipment?
I choose the surfaces I work on carefully, and often like to paint on raw wooden panels, working with the knots and grains and allowing them to influence the way the painting develops.
Linda Sharman, 'Sleepy Gondolas, Venice'
I also am interested in photography. I often take my camera with me when I go out and I find it’s a help with searching for new ideas and compositions.
How did you get to where you are now?
I originally studied as a knitwear designer and after leaving college I began designing ladies and children's knitwear. Alongside working, I always had a passion for painting which has been prominent within the family.
Linda Sharman, 'Venice Light', small watercolour on rough paper using one colour
My father has been a huge inspiration to my work. I went with him to painting workshops from the age of eleven in the evening. Over time painting has become a major part of my daily life.
I feel that my practice is an ongoing process. I am still learning and developing as an artist through the many places I visit and the experiences of life.
What were your best subjects at school?
Art of course! I used to have a passion for working with clay. That is something that I haven't had much opportunity to develop, but is something that one day I'd like to explore again.
What’s the proudest moment of your artistic career so far?
Linda Sharman outside the Oxo Tower . . . .feeling happy!
I had my work selected for the 21st National Open Art exhibition in London at the Oxo tower in November 2017. it was open to amateur and professional artists in the UK and Ireland and had attracted more than 4,000 entries across the country. It was a great feeling seeing my work in such a beautiful space alongside some fascinating pieces.
Do you have any regrets?
I studied art at a college level, but I would love to study painting at a degree level and this is something that I am hoping to do in the future.
EITHER / OR . . .
Coffee or tea?
Tea in the morning. Coffee throughout the day!
Linda Sharman, 'Homeward Turn, Norfolk'
Michelangelo or Picasso?
Picasso. I love the expressiveness of his work.
Mac or PC?
My son’s Mac!
Morning or night?
Morning . . .. it’s the best part of the day!
Linda Sharman, 'Coming Home, Norfolk'
YOUR FAVOURITE . .
Music
Too many to mention - I couldn't choose one. My favourite song is Marvin Gaye singing "What's going on".
Book
Jeffrey Archer, 'As the Crow Flies'
Linda Sharman, 'A Winter's Venice'
Three artists?
Turner, Manet –this was a love I shared with my father - and Bonnard
Things to do on a Friday night
Have an open fire and good home cooked food.
Favourite holiday spot
Venice! I also love Norfolk, and go there a lot, the light is so beautiful and there are wonderful places to visit all along the coast road.
What advice would give your 22-year-old-self?
If you want to do something . . . . .do it!
See Linda Sharman's paintings at the Cank Street Gallery from 3rd March 2018:
Visions Through Light: Linda Sharman
(3 March - 21 April 2018)
Cank Street Gallery
44-46 Cank Street, Leicester LE1 5GW
W: cankstreetgallery.co.uk