Ian Rawling is a contemporary realist pastel artist who possesses a remarkable ability to elevate everyday subjects into captivating visual narratives. His work is a testament to his adept skill in transforming regular objects into extraordinary observations. Whether it's the affectionately worn appearance of diecast model cars or imaginatively placed still life compositions, Ian's art is a harmonious fusion of precise execution and imaginative interpretation. Through understated compositions and a thoughtfully restrained colour palette, he accentuates textures and intricate details, skilfully blurring the line between art and reality. This meticulous attention to detail, coupled with his overarching artistic vision, has firmly established Ian Rawling as an exemplary figure among his contemporaries.
Ian's artistic promise was evident from an early age, leading him to pursue a Foundation in Art and Design at Chester School of Art. He subsequently honed his skills by obtaining a degree in Industrial Design from Sheffield Hallam University. During his academic journey, Ian's innovative spirit shone as he funded his studies by creating large-scale pavement drawings using pastels, chalk, and charcoal - a delightful surprise for those passing by.
Following his graduation, Ian's talent found a platform in the world of art and illustration. His creative journey included crafting and publishing greeting cards and limited edition prints for names in the industry, such as Hallmark and De Montfort.
In his present artistic pursuits, Ian deftly wields soft pastels, pastel pencils, and charcoal, each stroke of colour and line carefully orchestrated to emphasize imperfections, textures, and highlights. His technique is a disciplined dance of deliberate mark-making and surface manipulation, tailored to achieve his desired outcomes. Ian's artistic process is a deeply tactile one - from the initial stages of conceptualization to his hands-on engagement of blending colours using his fingers and palm. This tactile connection imbues his works with an organic vibrancy, and the intricate nuances of his approach reveal themselves upon close examination, inviting viewers to uncover the layers of his creation.
Ian Rawling is definitely a name to watch: his presence has been steadfast at the prestigious Pastel Society Exhibitions held at the Mall Galleries in London. In 2018, he was bestowed with both the West Design-Faber Castell Award and the Visitors' Choice Award, followed by another Visitors' Choice Award in 2019. His dedication and excellence in pastel art were further recognized in 2021 when he was granted membership to the esteemed Pastel Society. Notably, in 2023, he won the Pastel Society's Schmincke Award, underscoring his continuing journey of artistic growth and accomplishment.