Tim Shorten - Painting a World Away...
The artistic journey of artist Tim Shorten stands as a testament to dedication, passion, and an unwavering commitment to capturing the essence of a bygone era.
Born in Bolton, Lancashire, Shortens early fascination with art carried his interest through a series of educational institutions, laying a robust foundation for his future endeavors.
Tim Shorten - Educational Foundations and Early Career
Shortens formal art education commenced at the Bolton College of Art & Design, where he honed his foundational skills. Eager to delve deeper into the world of fine arts, he pursued further studies at Preston Polytechnic (now recognised as the University of Central Lancashire) earning a BA (Hons) degree in Fine Art. His academic journey culminated at Leeds Polytechnic (Leeds Beckett University) which equipped him with a diverse and comprehensive understanding of artistic techniques and theories.
Life after education saw Tim dedicate a significant portion of his career to nurturing young talents, as the Head of Art and Design at Altrincham Grammar School for Boys in Cheshire. This role not only allowed him to impart his vast knowledge but also to draw inspiration from the fresh perspectives of his students.
In 2017, after a fulfilling tenure in education, Shorten made the pivotal decision to immerse himself fully in his own artistic creations, marking the beginning of a prolific period in his career.
Tim Shorten - Artistic Style and Themes
Shortens catalogue of work is characterised by a profound nostalgia, transporting us to an era where life unfolded more slowly, where people were more aware of their surroundings and interracted more with those around them.
Tim's attention to detail and skill at capturing the subtleties of human interaction evoke a sense of intimacy and warmth.
Drawing inspiration from the elegance of the past, his paintings often depict scenes reminiscent of classic film noir, speak easy jazz clubs, and romantic interludes, each piece narrating its own unique story and it's not unusual to find two tales interwoven in the scene.
A notable example is his painting Paparazzi which captures the allure and intrigue of celebrity culture as seen in a bygone era. The composition, lighting, and expressions are meticulously thought through, inviting us to ponder the narratives unfolding before us.
Tim Shorten - Technique and Process
At the core of Tim Shortens artistic process lies a commitment to traditional methods. Having been taught to draw and to use the formal elements of art at an early age, he emphasises the importance of foundational skills in his work. His classical training is evident in the precision and clarity of his compositions.
Tim's medium of choice is oil on canvas, a testament to his appreciation for the depth and richness it gives to a painting. His process begins with extensive research, looking deep into locations and architecture, investigating interior styling and fashion for the era, so that everything in his work is true to how it would have been.
It is not unusual for Tim to have a collage of historical references and old photographs on his studio wall, allowing him to immerse himself in the feeling he wants to create. Initial investigations are often followed by detailed sketches, where he meticulously plans the composition, lighting, and tonal values.
Next the painting process itself, which is layered and deliberate, allowing each element to evolve organically while still maintaining harmony with the mood and the setting he creates...
In discussing his work, Shorten reflects on the evolution of his practice, noting that while he was fortunate to receive formal training, his journey as an artist has been one of continuous learning and adaptation, which is seen in the increasing complexity and depth of his most recent works.
Tim Shorten - Collaboration with The Acorn Gallery
Tim Shorten's partnership with The Acorn Gallery, in Pocklington has helped to bring his evocative pieces to a broader audience. John and Diane have, for many years, showcased many of his original works as well as offering limited edition prints, allowing his work to be accessible to more poeple.
Pieces such as Ae Fond Kiss, and Cedar Ridge have been prominently featured, each resonating with viewers through their portrayal of timeless moments and narratives.
You can enjoy many of Tim's past works in The Acorn Gallery Archive which documents the history of the paintings we have sold over the years. The archive helps to show his evolving artistic journey and provides his collectors and admirers with a rich resource to explore the breadth of his work.
Tim Shorten - The Artistic Journey Continues
Tim Shorten's dedication to his craft remains unwavering and he always has a wealth of ideas in his head and on his studio walls, planning ahead to his next painting even whilst he works on this one.
His recent works delve even deeper into the exploration of human emotions, relationships, and the ephemeral nature of time, reaching new audiences and inviting them to pause, reflect, and immerse themselves in the stories he so masterfully portrays.
If you would like to experience Tim Shortens art firsthand, then a visit to The Acorn Gallery offers an intimate encounter with our permanent and ever-changing display.
In essence, Tim Shortens art serves as a bridge between the past and the present, a canvas where memories and imagination meet. Through his skilled hands and perceptive eye, he captures the fleeting moments that define us, ensuring they linger in our consciousness long after we've stepped away from the frame.