In the studio with Stephen Simpson

How do you select the colours for your pieces?

I try my best to vary the colours I use for my floral work. Sometimes this can be a subtle change from one painting to the next – maybe a few shades lighter or darker, depending on the painting. I try to ensure that every piece is completely unique. Although the composition may be similar, the colours are always different.

Do you ever use fresh flowers for reference?

Around four years ago, when I started playing with the idea of painting floral works, I used real flowers for reference. However, I quickly found that I preferred to use my artistic license to come up with shapes or colours that were inspired by flowers that I’d previously seen, rather than flowers in front of me. This way, I was able to be a lot ‘looser’ with the paint, which is more in keeping with my style.

Have you tried any new techniques recently?

My technique has been described as blurring the line between 2D and 3D, and it is very distinctive. I spent around 18 months experimenting with different mediums before I was happy with the style I use today. That being said, I’m always thinking of new ideas and trying new techniques – using new materials with the aim to come up with something ‘new’.

Why did you start painting flowers?

I began painting abstracts with the sole intention of creating light and movement in my work. These abstracts were the seeds from which my landscapes and floral work grew (no pun intended!). It was a gradual progression over the years; my landscapes were so organic that it was almost natural for me to move into floral work.

What do you enjoy about events?

Doing exhibitions and meeting new clients or seeing collectors I’ve met at previous events is, for me, the highlight of being a professional artist. Most of the time, once a painting leaves my studio, I’ll never see it again or know where it ends up. So being able to meet and chat to people who appreciate my work is great. As I’ve been doing exhibitions for over eight years now, I’m seeing a lot of familiar faces of collectors who have followed my career, and it’s always nice to be able to thank them personally for their continued support.