WHAT’S IN A SELF-PORTRAIT?

WHAT’S IN A SELF-PORTRAIT?

Jul 23, 2026

I would like to politely request that someday, you should try to draw your self-portrait.

After all you’ve observed it closely most days of your life.

You’ve been its most intimate admirer and critic, as well as its most fervent one way conversationalist. Sometimes your own worst enemy. Other times the fountain of unbelievable wisdom!

The difference being once you pick up a pad ‘n pencil something different happens to your thinking. You have to try to figure out how all those individual bits come together to make up.. you!

Of course you will only see the reverse image of yourself. Others will only ever have the pleasure of seeing the real, right way round you.

But you may, by really, really patiently looking, probably for the first time ever, realise just what a miracle of creation you are!

The design complexity is mind boggling. Every face consisting of the same elements, each in its designated, surprisingly consistent, relationship to each other. (Did you know your head width is equal to five eye lengths across?).

Yet here you are, uniquely one out of 8.23 billion.

Don’t expect to frame and hang your first attempt over the mantelpiece for all to admire. Just be grateful for the challenge and tuck it privately away, until you compare it to the next one.

No photo, will compare.

This is your effort to capture your essence at this moment. With no judge or artistic jury asked for or required. Don’t forget, all the great artists have started where you are right now.

You may even end up with the prize of finding you’ve spent an hour or two away from looking into the glass screen on your mobile phone. Which is no bad thing.

Happy drawing from life.

JOSEPH DUVEEN – THE GREATEST ART DEALER IN THE WORLD!

JOSEPH DUVEEN – THE GREATEST ART DEALER IN THE WORLD!

Apr 15, 2026

For those unaware of the Duveen name. Hull born Joseph Duveen was known as the “Greatest Art Dealer in the World!” around the start of the 20th century. Knighted in 1919, made a baronet in 1926, and raised to the peerage in 1933. Title: Baron Duveen of Millbank.

Along with his father Joel and his Uncle Henry before him, he cultivated relationships with all the top philanthropists of that time, Mellon, Carnegie, Rockefeller and many more, including our own royalty. Advising them on the acquisition of their Old Master art collections, bought via his bases in London, Paris, Rome and his principal headquarters in New York City.

He is also responsible for the Duveen Wing at the Tate Gallery in London, and for funding the addition of a gallery to the British Museum to house the Elgin Marbles.

He was born on the 14th October 1869 and lived as a young child in his family home in English Street, HULL , a couple of hundred metres from where I myself was born.

WATCH LECTURE HERE

 

EXPERIENCING NOW.

EXPERIENCING NOW.

Nov 5, 2025

As a twenty year old working-class lad from Hull, I looked into a mirror in the back bedroom of my parent’s council house and drew myself (see picture below).
Capturing a moment in time with a simple pencil. It was quite good. It showed some promise. It was a sign to me that like many other self-portraitists from history, I could create something meaningful with very little.

I studied Graphic Design at Hull College of Art and Design for three years where happily, there were two figure drawing classes each week!

Duly educated, my purpose was clear, and for the last forty years I have applied myself to creating advertising and graphic design in London, Leeds and York, in both large and small companies.

Then later back in Hull, as a consultant creating a fair few websites and logos. Helping businesses communicate who they are and why you should connect with them.

In the late 70’s I’d left my drawing passion behind as I didn’t see myself as an “Artist” looking to express my own take on the world (even if I’d felt it was an option). No, my mind was focused on being a designer. I was excited to have creativity in my life, answering briefs, learning my craft and becoming part of the professional agency and consultancy world.

A RETURN TO DRAWING WITH A PURPOSE.

In 2015 after 40 years as a designer and more recently as a creative producer, I came back to drawing somewhat, by running a weekly figure drawing session at my Studio.

 

In which I felt blessed to spend time in front of another human, giving me the chance to capture their physical form with a pencil once again. Offering a few hours respite, in the company of my fellow drawers, from the constant pressures of daily life. Great practice but I had no more expectations from it other than that.

I also revisited the thinking of Eckhart Tolle (the German spiritual teacher) who points people towards developing a sense of awareness of the ‘moment’, of being present. Learning how to accept or enjoy the POWER OF NOW.

His writings struck a deep chord in me, especially his later book, THE NEW EARTH.

I passionately believe like him, that people are searching for deeper understanding of how to just “be” in an ever more complicated, ‘always on’ world. Especially those in the creative industries themselves.

This confirmed in me a decision to commit more time to fully exploring my own passion once again for drawing the human form and learning to appreciate presence.

So I have challenged myself to start afresh, with a little more life experience added..

To explore my own journey of getting better at seeing, being and drawing.

To look at creative ways to introduce people to the idea of letting go of fear, anxiety and the eternal quest for more. 

To encourage people to be more creative and productive with just a simple pad and pencil.

I hope you enjoy the journey with me.

DAVID REMFRY EXHIBITION

DAVID REMFRY EXHIBITION

Jun 16, 2025

Recently I paid a visit to my Dad’s families old town, to see an exhibition at the Beverley Art Gallery, about the English artist David Remfry.

I had read one or two online articles in the past about him and I was pleased that he was now being featured in a retrospective, ten miles from Hull, the city where his own youth was spent.

Arriving mid afternoon I was greeted by three, almost life size drawings in pencil and watercolour facing the gallery entrance. I thought what a good idea to capture the people stood before you, not just with head and shoulders but with feet sharing the same floor in accurate perspective with the viewer.

Drawn towards the audio commentary coming from behind the drawings, I spent a very enjoyable, sunlit dappled afternoon watching the various interviews of his illustrious life as an Artist.

What a humble and determined man he is.

After which I took the opportunity to sketch his watercolour portrait of Quentin Crisp hanging next to the monitor. I fondly remember watching the first showing of the “The Naked Civil Servant” on TV, brilliantly brought to life by the great John Hurt.   

“I defy you to do your worst. It can hardly be my worst. Mine has already and often happened to me. You cannot touch me now. I am one of the “stately homo’s of England” 

A portrayal of one of many famous people and eccentrics he has encountered over a fascinating lifetime of diligent, consistent, application to the art of drawing and painting people from life, in nightclubs, at the Chelsea Hotel (his New York home for 17 years), and at his Kensington home/studio, shared with partner Caroline Hansberry.

He was a student at The Hull College of Art (now NAPA – Northern Academy of Performing Arts) a decade or so before my own time there.

The idea of us having both shared a first introduction to the love of drawing the human form there seemed somewhat special.   

The exhibition is on until June 21st.

Kudos to Hannah Willetts, Beverley Gallery Curator for pulling this important home coming of work together.

UPDATE: Here’s a video of the talk he gave at the Gallery with Sarah Turner, Art Historian and Director of the Paul Mellon Centre, London. 

CONNECTING WITH COMMUNITY

CONNECTING WITH COMMUNITY

Mar 21, 2025

 Now in its tenth year as Hulls only community run library, this little gem of a resource sits calmly in a wooded, green oasis in the suburb of Anlaby Park, Hull.

Actress Maureen Lipman lived a minute’s walk away and has fond memories of it as a child, feeding her love of books.

Today, it is a thriving hub of the local community, hosting numerous indoor and outdoor events throughout the year to raise funds for its ongoing expenses.

I’m therefore very happy to attempt to add an extra item to the menu of community cohesion, with the introduction of my PAD Zone drawing sessions.

Having moved on from my centrally located studio in Hull’s old High Street, I hope this new venue will prove to be a worthy regular spot for those who want to practice their drawing skills – especially since I live just a few short steps away!

I wholeheartedly believe in PAD Zone’s promise that drawing from life can help people de-stress from the everyday pressures of life. Setting aside mobile phones and the TV for a couple of hours, for real, face-to-face, creative, human interaction.

For beginners, the subject often seems daunting, but every session proves that the joy of experimenting, failing, and trying again is always welcomed as part of the journey toward their own level of mastery.

It’s less about producing a great piece of art and more about appreciating just how fascinating we all are.

The more experienced drawers will also get a reliable, regular fix of stationary heads for their attention.

I hope you’ll try it some day.

Places are limited so please book your seat in advance.

Online:  www.padnpencil.uk/pad-zone-anlaby

Pay at the Library: Cash only.

THOUGHTS ON BUILDING A BUYABLE BRAND.

THOUGHTS ON BUILDING A BUYABLE BRAND.

Jun 3, 2024

Are you proud of your current branding? Does it help potential customers connect to all the hard work you do to keep them happy.

Kudos to you if it is. We know your logo, your messaging, your place in the world and in our busy, crowded minds.

If it’s not the case, my approach in PAD Logo Design may help you.

One thing I want people to know though, is that when I design a logo for a client… they have my complete attention, in that present moment!

Just like when someone draws a portrait from life, their mind, hand and eye are totally focussed on the subject before them. (Me being a designer who loves to draw, I like the analogy!)

Helping ambitious brand owners rebuild a weak, undefined identity and message is what I love to do. Building it eventually, into a buyable brand for either a customer, investor or future purchaser.

This takes time and is why I decided to work on a monthly subscription membership model, (like Netflix).

It gives us the time to get to know if we are a good fit for each other.

You get as many revisions as needed on all jobs, until you are happy. You can list as many jobs as you need. We work quickly and efficiently saving time on online meetings. Did I mention you can cancel or pause at any time.

Or..

If you simply wanted to get to know your own brand better, you could bring out your inner “Portrait Artist” grab a mirror, a Pad n’ pencil, and have a good look at your face as if it were your company and ask a few questions as you draw your own features.

EYES: Is my vision clear to see what changes in the tech and creative sectors are ahead of me to be present in my ideal customers world?

NOSE: Can I smell the difference between the unique essence of my brand, and that of my nearest competitors.

EARS: Am I aware of what the reality of my brand actually is in my customers mind, by simply asking them some questions and listening.

MOUTH: What is it that I say to people in the elevator or at a party about what I do and why it’s important to a certain group of people with a specific problem?

CHIN: Is it strong enough to take a hit financially if I don’t attract more sales by being known as the #1 brand in my speciality.
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(You may even have some better questions, analogous to facial features. I’d love to hear them).

With this little creative exercise you’ll at least have some ready answers to help formulate a better brand design brief, should you wish to start the process of changing your own.

Or maybe a promising additional career in Art!

INTRODUCING ‘THE PAD ZONE’ TO THE BUSINESS CULTURE IN HULL.

INTRODUCING ‘THE PAD ZONE’ TO THE BUSINESS CULTURE IN HULL.

Nov 22, 2022

Tony Bowler encourages all his 3,500 members of The Business Culture Hull network to have a ‘face to face’ to build closer bonds. He surprised 66 of them with a 10min intro to the #PADzone at the @DeepBusCentre.

The atmosphere initially was a mix of fear and apprehension from asking members to draw the person opposite, that turned to fun and laughter after the big portrait reveal. 

WHY THE PAD ZONE?

When you draw, your brain enters a state of flow—also known as “the zone.” Drawing provides a much-needed respite from the stresses of an office based working life by promoting flow states and forcing you to focus on the present moment. Providing a much-needed break from the desktop or mobile screen.

Book a #PADzone trial for your business.

www.padnpencil.uk/pad-zone-all-day

#PADzone #CreativeWellness #MentalHealth #TeamBonding #PortraitDrawing #WorkFun #TheBCHull

NOTES FROM A RAINY NIGHT OUT IN HULL.

NOTES FROM A RAINY NIGHT OUT IN HULL.

Nov 22, 2022

Really enjoyed meeting BBC Exec Producer Lalita Taylor FRSA and hearing her story.

Of her commitment (nay Love) of the BBC and the opportunities she has been offered in it and her determination to make the most of it in her many decades there.

A truly strong woman with many accomplishments in Tech with social media, applied to disability, women’s representation, skills/learning and now with a mission to share her knowledge, contacts and understanding with those seeking to make the most of their creative projects and ideas in Tech. (At any age).

As a small party, she asked each of us what we do and what our dreams were, before going into her own story.

I thought we represented an interesting little group.. a Programmer, an Exhibition and Museum Designer, a Student Musician, a Creative Business Networking duo, a budding Writer and content expert in “Shifting”, a Social Activist for the Arts and Creativity, the trio of CreaTech event organisers and me, a Brand Creator and Creative Producer.

After listening and interacting patiently she shared her own. (You had to be there! Don’t miss the next meet-up).

Within it recommending to us all to work on our own elevator pitch (an explanation of purpose that can be explained in a two minute ride in a “lift” by an enquiring stranger), so that when the opportunity arises we are ready to meet it.

Having redefined my own purpose recently, it was a timely reminder to take a look at writing my own script.

So when I am next asked by a potential friend or business contact what I do, here’s what they’ll hear.

“Do you know when people spend too much time at their computer or mobile screens at work or at home and sometimes their thoughts run away with them with incessant negative stories about their own past or future potential dramas. Or about the current state of the world.

Becoming stressed, mentally exhausted and fearful. Limiting their abilities to embrace creativity and appreciation of the awesome gift of life.

Well I invite them to a look at a simple method to make some space around those thoughts and understand the benefits of being present in the moment.

I do that by inviting people to pick up a PAD ’n Pencil and draw a portrait of the people around them, in a safe non judgemental space. Allowing deeper connection and the opportunity to share a unique moment with another. Not to produce great art but simply to be a witness of the person in front of them.

I have some very affordable, fun workshops and free advice for companies or groups of friends to try out, would you like to know more?”

So thank you for the reminder Lalita. I hope we will draw each others portrait someday.

By the way, what are the stats on the average screen time of a BBC employee? (No answer required, too many I’m sure)

Thanks to Antonio Tombanane, Elly Taylor and the EdgeHub team for hosting.

 

THE FROZEN MIDDLE.

THE FROZEN MIDDLE.

Nov 9, 2022

I attended a #TechWeekHumber22 session by Hannah Reid FCIPD Apple People Director for Europe, Middle East, India and Africa, with online presence of Bukola Adisa founder of Career Masterclass where I learned about “The Frozen Middle”.

A situation where the careers of people from black and ethnically diverse backgrounds can often stall after internal graduate and new recruit support programs end.

A real and growing need from the data collected, was to find ways to attract, recruit and retain talent in any business. One factor identified being the need to increase affinity across all levels, particularly at board level in new and creative ways.

So I’m encouraged that PAD PORTRAITS might find a useful role with that same objective. Although in a more ‘low tech’ way with a PAD ‘n Pencil.

Encouraging people to look at each other in real life, face to face, experiencing the challenge of creating a likeness, going some way to help override issues around shared connectedness.

PROJECT: PAD PORTRAITS.

Inviting innovative, affinity building companies to help promote the STOP, LOOK, DRAW, SHARE campaign and the benefits of living in the “NOW”….by Drawing from Life.

Adopt it into your own work culture to bring people closer in a fun, more meaningful way (golf and paint-balling is not always ideal!).

Also to help promote it to the local community by purchasing and giving away our PAD PORTRAITS drawing pads.

Always appreciate any feedback ..R.S.V.P.

#wellness #drawingfromlife #creativeplay #nowness #StopLookDrawShare #portraitdrawing #teambuilding #drawingforfun #supportart #diversity #ethnicity

GOOD TO CONNECT WITH YOU!

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