Chris Collingwood Biography
After an early career in animation, Chris eventually found his way into book jacket illustration. This also included advertising artwork, film poster design and graphic fine art for publishing houses. In 1992 Chris produced his first Limited Edition Fine Art Print with three colleagues under his own publishing company "The Historic Art Company" (now called COLLINGWOOD HISTORIC ART).
Chris takes private commissions throughout the year and has recently turned some of these images into Fine Art Giclee prints for direct publication and purchase.
Chris strives to produce paintings that are historically accurate, which is why many museums, publishers and historical exhibitions are particularly interested in his work. Chris’ ultimate aim is to capture the energy and spirit of the moment, to bring the history alive.
Chris’ work can be seen in many books, magazines and exhibitions worldwide, with his latest pieces appearing in numerous high-profile galleries throughout the USA and Europe. He uses traditional Dutch paints and exclusive handmade oil paints, designed to replicate those of the old masters.
He uses these paints thinly, mixing in a quick drying medium so as to rework certain areas without muddying the design. This enables the building up in layers of the fine detail. One canvas can take from 3-4 months to complete depending on scale and composition.
The vast amount of detail in Chris’ work necessitates a great deal of intensive research about any new subject in order to maintain its authenticity.
This may involve contacting experts, regimental museums, record offices and libraries around the world, buying or obtaining items of equipment, uniforms, armour and weaponry. This detail enables Chris to create a "super realistic", style that reflects the techniques, the passion and depth of the old masters whom he so admires. His style, however, is very much an "in your face"; view of the subject, sometimes even portraying figures appearing to exit the frame toward the observer.
This is a deliberate attempt to find a different and more contemporary angle on the subject than that of the classic 19th century military artists.
Unfortunately Chris can only accept a small number of private commissions a year, but he is always delighted to discuss ideas for new commissions.
For commissions or limited edition fine art prints, please contact Chris through any of the channels shown below.
Instant and up to date news can be found on Collingwood Historic Art’s Facebook page.
E-mail: chris@collingwoodhistoricart.com
Tel: +44 (0) 1805 623023 International - Std phone/fax 01805 623023
Most paintings are available as Limited Edition Fine Art Prints.