A exhibition of works in oil by figurative painter Justin Wheatley of the contemporary portrait. Paying tribute to the early-modern masters, the works harmonious warm and ‘chilled’ palette, and virtuoso brushwork serves to intimately express distinctive identities.
ForewordOn visiting Justin Wheatley’s exhibition, you'll experience a spectrum of styles, from the simplicity and elegance of oil sketches to larger-than-life multi-person paintings with intricate details and a myriad of textures. He’s injected his presence into five distinct works, each offering a glimpse into different facets of his life.
One of the paintings will transport you to the world of Vermeer, where Justin has inserted himself seamlessly into the narrative of a lady reading a note. Another painting is a dramatic, oversized crimson head – a portrayal of a dear friend. A New Year's Eve celebration is captured in panoramic splendour, its dark and atmospheric lighting casting a spell upon distorted figures immersed in animated conversation.
Some artworks are lively oil sketches that breathe life into the subjects with minimal detail, emphasising the vitality that defines these relationships. Large canvases showcase his visage set against the backdrop of my home, while a vivid blue masterpiece immortalises the spirit of Mette, a cherished Danish friend.
Wheatley’s artistic influences are diverse, drawing inspiration from the works of Botticelli, Velàzquez, Rembrandt, Vermeer, Augustus John, and Singer Sargent. He embraces a 'realistic' approach while employing a sense of freshness in his creations. The process involves capturing moments through the lens of a high-quality camera, ensuring authenticity and avoiding distortions. However, the heart of his work lies in truly understanding the character and personality of each subject.
A poignant memory of his mother's portrait serves as a reminder that a successful portrayal goes beyond mere physical likeness. Her vivacity, expressed through constant laughter and conversation, could not be captured by an image where she remained silent. When his mother asked a friend if he thought the portrait was a good likeness, he replied “I don’t know Annette, I’ve never seen you with your mouth shut.” This understanding of the individual, beyond their appearance, guides his hand and brush.
In pursuit of artistic expression, Wheatley works almost exclusively in oil paint on board, wood, or canvas. People, with their myriad stories and intricacies, are my eternal muses. My objective is simple – to create works of beauty that invite you to revel in their allure every day.
While mostly unavailable for sale, the paintings within this exhibition serve as a testament to what can be achieved through the marriage of artistry and personal connection. If the pieces resonate with you, consider this an invitation to embark on a collaborative journey. A commissioned work can capture the unique beauty that defines your world.
Thank you for joining me on this visual odyssey, and may the portraits before you evoke emotions as profound as the relationships that inspired them.
Hester Baldwin, Managing Director, 2024