About
Simone Russell is an abstract landscape painter based in London, known for her evocative use of color and texture. A graduate of the esteemed Glasgow School of Art, where she studied Printed Textiles, Simone honed her artistic skills, developing a deep understanding of visually captivating compositions. Her creative journey has been complemented by a successful career in retail, where her meticulous attention to detail has contributed to the success of her co-owned lifestyle shops, celebrated for their exceptional visual merchandising.
Currently, Simone is immersed in a new series of atmospheric landscape paintings inspired by the revered artists of the Romantic period. This era resonates with her artistic vision, as she revisits the iconic works that adorned her childhood home, notably those by Turner and Constable. Their ability to capture the sublime beauty of nature has left an enduring influence on her artistic practice, motivating her to honor their legacy through her own unique expression.
In her quest to convey a timeless quality, Simone employs a distinctive technique involving thin applications of oil paint, utilising brushes and pours. By intricately layering glazes, she creates a sense of air, light, and translucency, allowing previous layers to emerge and interact. This approach fosters a dialogue between the past and present, inviting viewers to connect with history while appreciating it through a contemporary lens.
The interplay of traditional Romantic elements with modern artistic methods results in a captivating visual narrative that encourages reflection on the allure of bygone eras. Through her work, Simone aims to evoke a sense of nostalgia while presenting a fresh interpretation of landscapes. Her paintings invite viewers to embark on a journey through time, exploring the beauty of nature in a thought-provoking and innovative manner.
My other life
Alongside my art practice I have co owned a successful retail business in London for 24 years. Verandah began its journey in Notting Hill. As the business expanded we moved to larger premises in Kensal Rise. Owning shops put me at the heart of the community. Meeting and building friendships with those people has been a constant source of nourishment. Designing the looks for the shops, creating innovative window displays and curating products from all over the world has fine tuned my eye for colour and composition.
Exhibitions
The Affordable Art Fair, Battersea, London. 17 - 20 Oct 2024
The Other Art Fair, Truman Brewery, London. 10 - 13 Oct 2024
Edinburgh Art Fair, Edinburgh. 20 -22 Sept 2024
Robertson Fine Art Gallery, Edinburgh. 13 27 July 2024
The Other Art Fair, Truman Brewery, London. 7 - 10 Mar 2024
The Other Art Fair, Truman Brewery, London. 12 - 16 Oct 2023
99 ProjectsGallery, London. 'My Local' Group show. 27 Jan - 18 Feb 2023
WWW Gallery, London. Group show. 1 - 31 Dec 2022
Stokey Pop Up, London. 'Conversations In Colour' hosted by Pilgrims Contemporary. 10 - 14 Nov 2022
The Other Art Fair, Truman Brewery, London. 13 - 16 Oct 2022
Willesden Gallery London. Solo show 'Romancing Medium' 10 - 21 May 2022
Willesden Gallery, London. Group show 'Locked Unlocked' 6-17 July 2021