Interview with John Hines, LGB Alumni
What does being an alumnus of Ecolint mean to you? It means a lot to me because it gave me the chance to have so many good teachers, and great Extended Special Programme teachers, and learn so much
about so many things.
How would you describe your work over the last two years, since leaving Ecolint? During the last two years, I have been inspired by many artists and have experimented with many techniques and ways of putting images together, and so my work has changed a lot. I have learned about different ways to draw and paint complex objects, and also about different ways of using shading and perspective to create depth. I have learned about how to make a composition, how to use strong colours to create contrasting effects, and how to add layers of paint to bring more detail to my work. I have tried to put together what I have learned, and my style is now becoming more abstract, with bright colours, dramatic contrasts, strong lines and clear shapes.
Who are your biggest influences? In drawing, I have been most influenced by Leonardo Da Vinci’s and Albrecht Durer’s hand and feet drawings. In painting and collage, I have been inspired by Andy Warhol, Paul Cézanne, David Hockney, Paul Klee, Roy Lichtenstein and Wassily Kandinsky.
What is next for you? Since leaving Ecolint, I have enjoyed the foundation level drawing course that I completed last year with the University for the Creative Arts (UK), and I like the
foundation level painting course that I am working on now. I hope to continue to improve my artistic skills, learn more techniques, keep developing my style and become a
professional artist.
Do you have any wise thoughts to pass on to aspiring artists? It’s important to be willing to experiment with lots of different techniques and styles, and be inspired by many different
artists. That’s the best way to start to find your own style and your own way of showing the things you see.