Caroline Shotton – Napoleon T-Bonaparte

Caroline Shotton has been painting for as long as she can remember. Caroline lived on the outskirts of London which meant she benefited from being within easy reach of London Galleries and open countryside, both of which were a source of immense inspiration to her. As an only child Caroline had the freedom to immerse herself in her work, she also received a great deal of encouragement and guidance from her Grandmother who raised her for which Caroline is eternally grateful.

Early influences came from the old masters. Caroline Shotton was fascinated by their realism and throughout school years strived perfection.

When studying at Central Saint Martins Caroline’s eyes were opened to new ideas and techniques. Caroline was captivated both by surrealism and impressionism and much of her work now combines elements from these eras.

After college Caroline Shotton worked as a freelance artist in the commercial sector, undertaking bespoke commissions from businesses throughout the country, from large abstracts to intricate murals. Caroline enjoyed this as every project was different and she was often asked to produce styles and subject matter she would never have dreamed of had she been alone in her studio.

When Caroline’s son was born she decided to concentrate on her gallery career. Caroline said “It has been lovely painting without a strict brief and my work has developed immeasurably, incorporating different aspects from my past commissions with the freedom to choose my own direction.”

It may be a scrap of paper that Caroline saved from a furnishing magazine or the disgruntled look cows gave her as she passed them in the field one morning that inspired her to paint. Caroline find herself constantly sourcing images, taking photographs and scribbling down ideas which she may use that day or in a year’s time.

Caroline Shotton got inspiration when she least expected it, normally when she’s relaxing and not consciously thinking about painting. Caroline Said “I wonder how I’d capture on canvas the way the light’s falling on my son’s hair or which techniques I’d use to recreate the decaying plasterwork on a disused shop front.”

Caroline is privileged to have been asked to undertake many different commissions throughout her career incorporating subject matter and methods she wouldn’t have considered alone in her studio. This has pushed Caroline to unforeseen artistic tangents and given her an invaluable catalyst for the future.