Jersey artist's drawings at world's largest aviation art exhibition

Sunday 20 May 2018

Genuine Jersey artist Stephen Davies has successfully submitted two framed drawings to the annual ‘Aviation Paintings of the Year’ exhibition held by the Guild of Aviation Artists, at the prestigious Mall Galleries in Central London this July.

Stephen's work will be displayed with over 400 works of art, marking his fifth successful submission to the exhibition since 2011.

Stephen specialises in detailed, monochrome pencil drawings and strives to create an almost photographic look. Fascinated by aeroplanes and flight from an early age, he reflects his passion by featuring aircraft, military vehicles and cars as the main subject matter of his drawings. Other subjects include animals, land and seascapes, portraits, people, glamour and wildlife. 

Stephen says: "From an early age I have always been fascinated by aircraft and flight, being inspired by my late father and the Airfix artworks by Roy Cross and the paintings of Michael Turner, as well as many comic book illustrations of aircraft by such artists as Ian and Cam Kennedy. Taking inspiration from these artists, I have produced a wide range of aviation works some examples of which you can see here along with some other subjects showing my versatile style. 

"As an artist, I try to captivate you in the hope that you will marvel at the detail of each work, from complete subjects to close ups alike, and find enjoyment from discovering something new each time you view my work. I always aspire to bring a photographic like quality to my black and white drawings."

Pictured: ‘The Forgotten Heroes,’ a Hawker Hurricane.

He was made an Associate Member of the Guild of Aviation Artists, after three successful submissions to the 'Aviation Paintings of the Year', something he describes as one of his greatest accolades. Two of his pieces will be displayed in this year's exhibition, which is the largest of its kind in the world, ‘The Forgotten Heroes’ a Hawker Hurricane themed black and white drawing and ‘The Fargo Express’ a Spitfire themed mixed media piece.

Stephen says: "I was thrilled to find out that two of my drawings had been chosen once again for this renowned London exhibition. Whilst this is the highlight of my year due to the subject matter, I do produce a broad variety of work and commissioned pieces in monochrome and colour depending on my customers’ requests."

Pictured: ‘The Fargo Express’ a Spitfire themed a mixed media piece.

John Garton, Chief Executive Officer of Genuine Jersey, added: "The association is extremely proud to count Stephen Davies as one of its members. It is important that we celebrate the achievements of our local artists, producers and craftsmen who are gaining international recognition. They are part of what makes Jersey great and a real inspiration to us all."

Stephen's work can be seen locally at the Jersey Art Centre until 26 May as part of the De La Salle Centenary Exhibition. Some of his drawings are also on display and can be purchased from the Harbour Gallery, Jersey War Tunnels and Broad Street Post Office. Original pieces can also be found in the Victoria Art & Framing Gallery in St. Helier.