Brian Sheilds paints John Clare Journal cover

Woodingdean artist Brian Sheilds is delighted that his latest work will feature on the front cover of the John Clare Society Journal.
The journal is published annually by the John Clare Society and is available from them or at the John Clare Festival that runs from 13 – 15 July 2012 in Helpston Northamptonshire, Clares' birthplace.

Brian has been working on a series of paintings Preparing to Fly inspired by the work of John Clare that explores the poets intense relationship with nature. You can see a selection of Brian’s work on his website www.brianshields-artist.co.uk/ His works Study for Avian John (bird name) reference William Hilton’s portrait of Clare that hangs in the National Portrait Gallery in London.

Brian, originally from North Yorkshire lives in Woodingdean with his partner Claire. He studied at Teeside College of Art, Wimbledon School of Art and Greenwich University. Brian loves the countryside surrounding Woodingdean and can often be seen searching out specific flora and fauna to ensure that every element of his paintings are realistic and correct.

His portrait Inside Out (Clare with Claire) was exhibited at the National Portrait Gallery between June and September 2010.

You can purchase Brian’s work – or commission a painting by getting in touch with him brian@brianshields-artist.co.uk