Anthony Eyton: A Centenary Exhibition

One of Britain’s leading figurative painters, Eyton paints only subjects which excite him, and each work is informed by the formation of the view before him. Scenes of crowds are driven by flashes of brilliant colour, where gardens and landscapes are enveloped in the tranquillity of the natural world, each retaining an overarching essence of energy and movement. Each scene is enhanced by his gestural brushstrokes and primary pigments, while the layering of paint, with details built up gradually, constantly draws the eye across the canvas, revealing fresh details with every pass.  

 

Born in Middlesex, Eyton studied at Camberwell School of Art and upon graduating was offered the Abbey Major scholarship to study in Italy. He has travelled extensively, in particular to India, Israel and Sudan, always on the lookout for inspiration in the people he met and landscapes he explored, which he then recorded on paper and canvas. In 1982 he was commissioned by the Artistic Records Committee to observe and paint the Gurkha regiment in Hong Kong and the New Territories, the paintings of which were exhibited at the Imperial War Museum. He was also invited by the Tate Gallery to work in the Bankside Power Station prior to it becoming Tate Modern, and two pictures subsequently entered the Tate Collection.

 

Eyton is an elected member of the London Group, a Royal Academician, and a member of the Royal Watercolour Society. He lives and works in Brixton, London.