Artist's Statement

Through my work I aim to combine influences from traditional painters and illustrators with a modern use of photography as a research tool. I hope to be able paint pictures that capture times and places that have and continue to be a source of inspiration.

The realistic finish to the painting aims to reflect societies unquestionable faith in the authenticity of the photographic image. Being of a generation that has grown up surrounded by photography, from newspapers to billboards, my work reflects how as a result I view thought and dreams as photographic forms.

Working on large canvases, the surface encourages the viewer to contemplate the image as a whole whilst also being able to move closer and view the variety of colours and mark making that combine to build the final image.

The works of artists such as Edward Hopper and Norman Rockwell have proved a constant source of inspiration for there ability to capture mood alongside more modern painters such as the American Richard Estes whose New York landscapes perfectly illustrate an example of photography's relationship to painting.

Albemarle Gallery

Neil Douglas was born in Bristol in 1978. He graduated from Wolverhampton University in 2000 with a BA (Honours) in Painting. Since leaving University, he has exhibited his work in both the U.K and the U.S.A.

Throughout his childhood, Douglas experienced the landscapes of America only through indirect mediums such as photography, television and film. He was fascinated by the iconic and absorbing images of Hollywood films and brand advertising. The paintings in this exhibition portray this idolised vision of Americana he grew up with, an America void of political or social connotations. They are escapist yet realistic representations of everyday life, expertly captured in the photorealist style.

When viewing Douglas’ work, one can clearly recognise the influence of certain pioneers of Photorealism, such as Richard Estes, Ralph Goings and John Salt. Douglas shares their ability to painstakingly recreate the complex visual details of American life, be it in the reflection of a cafeteria window, the sheen on a car bonnet or the neon billboard sign which hangs over a music hall. His meticulous renderings of the Manhattan skyline are perfect demonstrations of this skill and craftsmanship he possesses as a painter.

Tomas Bates, Albemarle Gallery 2008