Original acrylic painting 'Mist on the Downs'
A self taught artist, Bill Haines was born in 1943 at home on his father’s farm in the picturesque village of Walcot near Stratford-upon-Avon. His family moved to Yorkshire in 1953 where he completed his education. At school he showed a natural talent for drawing which eventually led him to a successful career in engineering as a designer in the automotive industry.
In 1973 he began to take a more serious interest in painting which has developed into a fascination with the effect of sunlight and mist, lending a unique atmosphere to many of his paintings.
His early childhood on the farm during the late 1940’s and early 50’s, was a period in which 19th century farming methods had not been completely replaced by the mechanisation we see today. Memories of this and other images have inspired many of his rural paintings set around the turn of the century.
Other work has been inspired by his love of horses as subjects for painting, leading to a number of commissions for horse portraits and by his interest in maritime history and aviation. He has 15 years experience both as the holder of a private pilot’s licence and as an enthusiastic glider pilot and gliding instructor.
'Reflections'
Recent subjects have been influenced by the colourful figurative work of contemporary Spanish artists and by visits to the Mediterranean.
His work has been exhibited widely in England and Wales and is in private collections throughout the UK, in Europe, Australia and the USA.
A number of his paintings have been reproduced as limited and open edition prints and greetings cards.
Bill is married with a son and a daughter and lives near Leamington Spa.
'Evening Thoughts'