Beach hut studios brings you Gavin Larkin

I was born in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, and from a young age showed a keen visual interest in the world around me, encouraged by a strong artistic flair that runs through my family.

While studying the history of art, I was fascinated and inspired by the French Impressionist Movement of the 1870s, and the unique characteristics the artists introduced into their work – not least the accurate depiction of light and its changing qualities.

Following my studies in art, photography and graphic design, I pursued a long and successful career in the advertising business. The variation and creativity of visual material and ideas required in this profession has certainly influenced my painting and photography.

My preference is painting directly from nature, ‘en plein air’, to effectively and spontaneously capture the true effect of colour and light. Landscapes dominate my subject matter through my love of the outdoors and the beauty in nature. Although acrylics are the main medium I work in, I also enjoy experimenting with different mediums and techniques, often straying into the abstract.

As with painting, the art of photography holds a special appeal and interest for me. Truly understanding composition, imagery, light and timing are key to mastering this magnificent medium.

“To take a photograph is to align the head, the eye, and the heart. It’s a way of life”
– Henri Cartier-Bresson.

Capturing that one and only fleeting moment on camera is the most challenging and rewarding achievement for me.

I believe success is achieving a timelessness in my work, and such that the collectors of my art pieces never tire of the visual enjoyment experienced.