Round three of our Cornish Creatives series sees us joined by Jamie Medlin. A Cornish boy through and through, and an artist that can only be described as an outstanding painter...yes painter! Using oils to depict all things Cornwall, Jamie's attention to detail is second to none.
Having grown up on the coast, Jamie has the sea coursing through his veins. He has painted some of the world's most beautiful yachts, sailing boats and racing boats amongst a myriad of other coastal related imagery.
The piece selected for ‘Meshes of the Afternoon’ is an incredible shot looking down at a mirror-like sea along Restronguet Creek in Falmouth. You’d be forgiven for thinking you’re looking at a photograph. The Verdant team love Jamie’s work, he’s an amazing talent, and not a bad footballer to boot!
The 4.8% pale ale utilises our lighter and crispier base pale recipe and is loaded up to the gunnels with Motueka and Ekuanot hops on the both hot and cold side. Motueka brings all the creamy lime juice and pairs brilliantly with the citrus and tropics of Ekuanot. A thirst quencher with serious substance.
We caught up with Jamie and asked him a series of questions about his work and what inspires it.
Explain what you do in one short sentence.
I try to replicate the beauty of Cornwall in oil paints.
Did you study your trade and if so where?
I studied illustration at Falmouth School of Art and Design for 4 years. The lecturers we had were mostly photo-realistic in their own fields which obviously led to my tight style. I went on to work in London for seven years in advertising and publishing before returning home to Cornwall where I turned my attention to my Cornish scenic work and developed my style to what it is today.
How did you get into your groove?
I just started painting the scenes I get pleasure from and realised there’s a lot of other people that get a similar pleasure from nature and particularly Cornwall. It’s very rewarding when people want what you produce - you guys would understand that!
How long have you been creating?
Since I can remember. I’ve always been handy with practical stuff, whatever the medium. Pencils, paints, wood, metal, clay it always worked out OK. As a kid I always had a pencil to hand and would spend hours drawing – something my parents encouraged, probably more for a bit of peace and quiet!
If you weren't creating what would you be doing?
If I couldn’t do what I’m doing, it would have to be something to do with nature. With all the crap that’s going on in our world at the moment, it would have to be environmentally biased to protect our little paradise. Or possibly an ale taster...quality control etc.
What’s beyond your wildest dreams?
For all the selfish and greedy idiots in the world to realise the consequences of their actions and do something about saving our planet . . .to surf properly . . .and to win a lifelong supply of Lightbulb!
Rephrasing the question to “what are my hopes?” Staying happy and for my kids to think I’m silly.
Who do you take the most inspiration from and why?
Difficult one – no particular artist if that is the question? There are loads I love, but I don’t overly take inspiration from.
‘What’ do I get inspiration from? Nature and Cornwall. Every time I go for a walk (without fail) I see something different I’d like to paint. with the subjects I choose – the inspiration is all around us.
Why did you create / choose this piece for the can art?
I just think it’s a pleasing image, peaceful and calming. It’s my most popular image at the moment and I think the reason could be people looking for a bit of tranquillity. I think it could be parents looking for an escape into a quieter place.
What does Cornwall mean to you?
Home, and belonging to something special. Being part of a community that appreciates the beauty on our doorstep and considers ourselves lucky to be living in a beautiful part of the world. I don’t think there can be a community in the world more passionate about their homeland! Whether it be our scenery, our sport, our pasties and all things Cornish. It binds people.
What’s your best piece of work and how did it come about?
Difficult one, dozens of them!
My best technically would be my America’s Cup painting from the 2013 Cup in San Francisco. I had to use every skill I’d ever learnt for that one – painting the Golden Gate Bridge is something I hope I never have to do again. It came about after the result of the best America’s Cup ever and the biggest sporting comeback in history meant it was an event I had to record in paint.
Favourite? There are many for different reasons. Restronguet Creek is a favourite – a technical challenge and packed with detail of a favourite spot. My ‘Mariquita – Pendennis Cup’ would be my favourite yachting one though – one of my best bits of painting ever. A challenge, but so happy with the result.
Jamie Medlin | Website | Instagram |
Meshes of the Afternoonwill be available to purchase from the Verdant webshop from 10:30AM on Wednesday September 2nd.