William Watson West

William Watson-West is a painter currently based from his North London studio. Born and raised in Yorkshire, as soon as he could hold a pencil, his parents encouraged him to draw, and he has been creating art in one form or another ever since.

After completing an Art Foundation at Leeds College of Art and Design, William then studied Printed Textiles at Edinburgh College of Art (The University of Edinburgh) where painting was always the precursor to his designs. Having spent a period of time designing print for homeware and various fashion accessories based upon his artwork, the act of painting itself eventually became his primary focus and passion.

Having spent years inspired by the rural and urban landscape and the flora and fauna within them, he is increasingly motivated by emotional struggles and the response to memories, nostalgia, love and loss. Childhood memories, imprints of important moments in time and place and his relationship with them provides a rich and varied source of inspiration supported by a foundation of drawing from life and direct observation.

Primarily working in acrylic, William's work is increasingly abstract, utilising bold colours and intriguing compositions. He works instinctively and spontaneously in moments of intense production driven by raw emotion and pure impulse.

Previously shortlisted for the New Light art Prize, he has exhibited throughout the North of England and has work held in several private collections.