Railway Artist John Cowley GRA   Art & Photo Galleries . .         Gallery   Studio       I am originally from Bedfordshire and whilst I never undertook any formal art training, I benefit from 25 years spent in car-body design. The model-making, draughtsmanship and illustrating aids me now in the precision required for my railway paintings. I am a full member of the Guild Of Railway Artists with whom I have exhibited at the National Railway Museum, York and Kidderminster Railway Museum. I belong to Rail Artists South East, a group which is in the process of expanding its profile and organising exhibitions. This group has a strong association with the Bluebell Railway who provide facilities to exhibit our work.   I now concentrate almost exclusively on Railway artwork, with a 30 x 20 oil painting usually taking over two months to complete. One of the reasons for this time taken is due to the many glazes that I use in my particular technique. During the painting process I find myself reflecting on the wealth of childhood memories associated with the steam scene of the 1950's. These memories are rich with the smell of burning coal, the sound of escaping steam, and not forgetting the filthy state I arrived home in after a trip to the London sheds. So absorbed by the adventure it wasn't unusual to find the odd crumpled bag of sandwiches in a pocket, some days later. I particularly enjoy painting the shed yards that I visited and I endeavour to paint with integrity the raw industrial scene that I witnessed. I cannot help but paint for myself and this helps me to fulfill the commissions for those who are ordering my paintings. To be able to earn part of my living as a railway artist never fails to thrill and brings me to the conclusion that I am truly blessed.     Interesting Links   The Guild Of Railway Artists       Bluebell Railway   Bluebell Railway links page       . If you like my work and would consider a commission then do mail me site design by John back to top