Ken is probably best known as a pastellist. He is a member of the British Pastel Society and still shows his work at their annual shows at the Mall Galleries, until quite recently demonstrating to crowds of eager artists. He is also a member of La Societe des Pastellistes de France and was awarded the title of ‘Master Pastelliste‘, an honour very rarely given to an Englishman. He went on to become Vice President of that society. The following is a quote from the then president, Monsieur Jean Pierre Merat in 1987
“I am privileged to give great praise as I have found someone of great artistic ability. He is a natural master. I state with all my heart his talent will always be recognised not only for today but for the future.”
There will be a great number of readers of this article who are aware of Ken Paine’s work, some of whom will have been taught by him, others who will have seen him demonstrate and many who will have seen his work reproduced in magazines and gracing the walls of galleries. The Sky Arts programme “Ken Paine – Painting Faces”, where he discussed his approach to painting, demonstrated his teaching methods and finished by painting and talking to the actor Joss Ackland, was seen by viewers all over the world. He is passionate about his work and, in turn, his paintings convey that depth of feeling.
A new book, written by Ken’s partner of some 11 years, the writer Penelope Lee, tells the fascinating story of this artist’s life.
Ken’s talent was first discovered by his art teacher at school.
“Bob Tanner (‘one and six’ as the children called him), a man to whom Ken’s artistic talent shone like a beacon. He begged the headmaster not to cane Ken’s hands believing him to be that rare and wonderful thing … a natural talent.”
His upbringing was unusual by any standard. His mother died when he was just 13 months old and he was brought up by his father with the assistance of his Aunt Louise in the early years and from the age of 11 rather haphazardly with the assistance of his sister. His father, having originally been on the stage with his wife in music halls, was a property master in the film business and was responsible for instilling the young Ken with an understanding of light and shade; balance and shapes.
Today Ken uses Daler Rowney acrylics, almost exclusively – especially Paynes Grey; Titanium White; Yellow Ochre; Quinacridone Burnt Orange; Cadmium yellow; Burnt Sienna and sometimes one of the blues (this varies) and he purchases these from Jackson’s Art Supplies. He will sometimes add the odd Golden acrylic to his range of colours. When it comes to pastels, he now prefers Unison and has been loyal to that company for many many years. He again is able to purchase his needs from Jackson’s and a particular favourite is what he calls ‘madder brown’ but which is actually one of the earth deep reds/browns, depending on what exactly takes his fancy at the time. He uses black; white; red/grey; ochre etc… He chooses Canson Mi Teintes paper (again from Jacksons), usually mid grey.
‘Ken Paine …. Nowhere to Hide’ is available at www.kenpaine.co.uk; priced at £25.00 plus p@p
With thanks to Penelope Lee
