This month we are talking all things ART – with a thriving Art department and decades of distinguished artists who we are proud to call Old Vikings - we speak with former pupil Nick Quirke (00B) about his art, what inspires him and how his time at Shiplake shaped his passion to pick up the paintbrush.

Why do you paint?

Painting has been a big part of who I am since I was a kid. My parents still have art I produced from 30 years ago! It’s hard to put into words why I paint, I guess it’s just something in you.

What sort of artist would you categorise yourself as?

This is a complicated question! I paint three styles – abstract, impressionism and surrealism. I guess you could call it ‘quirkeism!’ Ha Ha!!

What is your favourite medium?

Oil mostly, but I also use acrylic and graffiti spray.

What was your earliest inspiration to become an artist? How did you get into art?

My parents took me to see Monet’s Lilypads at an art show in London when I was 11. I was totally hooked on art from that moment! I also purchased a book on Dali’s collection which I still have to this day!

Which artists shaped your thinking/biggest influences? 

Dali, Monet, Manet, Rembrandt and Turner

What influence did Shiplake have on your love of art?

David Stoker was Head of Art at the time. He was a fantastic teacher. What I still remember about him today, is that he rarely told me how to paint, but directed me towards artists I should look at. From there you kind of make your own journey.

How often do you paint and how do you get your inspiration?

As a fulltime artist, I paint most days, when I’m not dealing with admin! Guess I have always been quite lucky in that I have always had a steady supply of commissioned works, so topics are dominated by that.

Why do you think art is so important to society?

Art is everywhere if we stop and look around, instead of looking into the lens of a phone (myself included sometimes!). Artists like Banksy have taken street art into some of the biggest mainstream art chains in today’s world. Art gets people talking and sometimes that’s enough!

How did you turn your love of art intro a business/ commercial opportunity?

I sometimes pinch myself that I get to do the job I love and am totally committed to. I see art as a full-time job – I start at 9am and finish at 5pm or however long it takes to complete the section of painting I’m working on.

How do you navigate the world of professional art? What skills do you need?

The art world is too vast to take a snapshot! I look and listen to what art is out there and what interests me and I take lots of notes. In terms of skills, this is something that never stops – every time I paint or draw – I learn something new. Skills must evolve as you work – much like a footballer isn’t the same one season to the next – you need to develop.

What memorable responses have you had to your work?

I painted my biggest commission to date last year for the Hilton Hotel in Abingdon, Oxford. The response was incredible and the whole process an amazing experience.

How has your art/style changed over time?

I believe I am going through a change right now! It’s very strange because it is something you can’t prevent! I am excited to see how these changes look once I’ve found this style.

What are you painting at the moment?

I am preparing for an art show at Amber Galleries in Henley-on-Thames next month. I am working on a body of work for this exhibition, the show is called Subconscious Skies.

If you could paint anything, what would it be?

Landscapes

Do you have a favourite time of the day to paint?

I seem to finish most of my paintings late at night! I think this may have something to do with the kids being asleep!!

What motivates you to paint?

I believe I have taken my sporting background and mindset into the art world! I don’t like stopping until I have completed my work. I am also good at delivering my targets!

What advice would you give your younger self or anyone keen to develop a career in art?

Go and see more art in the flesh. Seeing a Rembrandt portrait on a screen vs a gallery is a totally different learning experience. David Stoker always used to tell my class – keep a visual diary. Today, I guess we use Instagram – but always keep your sketchbooks.

A massive thank you to Nick for sharing his passion for art for the Spotlight series. His exhibition at Amber Galleries, Henley-on-Thames runs from 16-23 February 2024 with a special preview evening on the 16 February – 6-8pm.

For more details go to www.nickquirke.co.uk or follow on Instagram or TikTok – Nick Quirke Art.

If you are an Old Viking and would be interested in sharing how you turned your passion into a career, please contact oldvikings@shiplake.org.uk