Jonathan Shearer - contemporary Painting

Jonathan Shearer lives and works in Alness, Scotland.

Jonathan gets all his inspiration from nature. Scot by adoption he has developed an intimate relationship with the Scottish wilderness.

"In my paintings, I try to convey the meaning of being fully submerged in the landscape, the wind in my face, the clouds enveloping the mountains, twigs cracking under foot."

Most of the time, Jonathan seeks out spots as yet unspoiled by man which convey a complete sense of isolation. Only when he is utterly submerged in the countryside can he begin painting. Initially, small oil on canvas. Once back in his studio, he uses these to create much larger works.

This technique allows him to work quickly in the field so as to capture the changing light, the ebb and flow of the tides and the landscape's elusive mood.

" The weather is a major influence in my work and I usually go for something dramatic. If it's a calm and sunny day, I'll probably find that a bit dull."