Realistic Art – ‘The Stare’ by Peter E J Forbes
This week’s artwork of the week is a realistic Tiger picture by Peter EJ Forbes. It is a large piece of art at 96 x 65cm. I’m sure you’ll agree, the details captured by Peter are amazing.
Drawn using mixed media of charcoal and acrylic on a box canvas panel. This gives the drawing more stability and means that it does not need to be behind glass. Also, the drawing is sealed so you can handle it like a painting. The canvas is framed in a matt black wood floater frame made by Peter.
The works in this charcoal series are quite large and imposing due to being mainly black and white. This particular work is striking in its subject – depicting the different types of fur to be found on a Sumatran Male Tiger. The tiger is the second largest of the species and is known for the length of its facial fur, which make it look so regal. This tiger is walking into the frame from the left and has locked its gaze on something interesting, maybe a mate, maybe food, who knows but just be glad it is not you!’
About the Artist
I am a self-taught full time artist living in Hampshire England. The knowledge that I have now has been hard won, through lots of trial and an awful lot of error! I have used many mediums, including oils and watercolours and other abstract materials with which to create art.
While serving in the Military I painted works on commission and completed several large paintings. The military subjects were commissioned for a number of Regiments within the armed services. I have also completed many pet and personal portraits and sold my work both at home and internationally.
Currently I work mainly in oils, sometimes using a quick approach other times highly detailed. My other mediums at the moment are charcoal (which I love) and acrylics.
Peters style
You may describe me as a realist as I like to put detail into my art. However, I am now attempting to free myself from the constraints of detail and produce art with a looser style. This is an ongoing struggle that I am enjoying.
Everyone has different tastes and styles that they enjoy and like to see around them. I myself try not to stick to one subject, or type of art. Instead, I let my passion pull me in any direction it wishes to. One week I will be covered in charcoal drawing a large lion, the next an oil portrait and the next a detailed painting of a burger, oranges, or full English breakfast!
It has taken me my whole life to understand that producing art, in any form or style is what truly makes me happy. So that is what my life and my happy struggles will be about. I hope you enjoy looking at my work, enjoy your life and fill it with the art that you love! All the best Pete
Questions to the Artist
Firstly, your artwork is stunning. Do you produce your artworks from photographs, life (hopefully not the tiger) or both?
I use photographs found on the internet, in books and those I have taken myself. Sometimes I use several photos as reference for a single art work.
What is your favourite medium to work with and why?
I have two, oils and charcoal. Oil paint is my go to paint medium. Using thin paint for detail and thicker impasto paint for a more loose style of work. I like how it can stay wet and workable for days, but mixed with a little Liquin will be touch dry the next day – the best of both worlds.
Also, I love to work with charcoal, but as my studio is in my home I have to work “clean” as charcoal powder and dust gets everywhere. Once on a rug or clothing it is hard to remove. I will often use a paint brush to draw and paint with charcoal, as it is such a forgiving medium. You can work quickly and alter things as you go, quite easily. I love how you can make it feel dramatic by using black charcoal or dreamy and almost misty, by using vine charcoal.
What or who inspires you? Any particular favourite artist?
There are so many artists now putting work on the internet that you are spoilt for choice regarding inspiration. To be honest it can also be pretty daunting seeing all the great work that is being produced.
Were you employed in the Military as an artist?
I was commissioned to make a number of large artworks while I was in the military, but didn’t continue painting when I left. Around 6 years ago I returned to painting seriously and realised it was what I should have spent my youth doing. I regret the lost years. However this has given me the desire to spend as much of my remaining time striving to produce good art. Also to always chase improvements in my work.
How long have you been creating your wonderful artwork?
My better work has happened in the last two or three years. I put this down to the amount of time I now devote to painting and drawing. There is no fast track to being able to paint or draw well. You just simply have to get a brush, charcoal stick or whatever medium you choose to use and put the work in. The results you achieve will spur you on to even greater effort.
