Profile on Paul Bell

Paul-Bell-and-The-Essential-School-of-Painting-May-2015Paul Bell first love is art and painting in particular. Glaswegian Paul spent his formative years as an aspiring artist, and, at an early age managed secure a foundation course at Glasgow School of Art (GSA) sponsored by his then employer, The Fletcher McNeece Partnership, one time one of the United Kingdom’s top interior design partnerships (citation from The Glasgow Herald, the 2nd of December 1981). Paul went on to be offered a full-time study place at the GSA, however, as a young married man with a young family, Paul couldn’t afford to go to Glasgow School of Art. He instead attended part-time art classes studying life drawing and pursued a career in interior design after being awarded a Diploma membership to the Society of Industrial Artists and Designers. Following a twenty year career specializing in Architectural and Interior illustration, Paul finally left his illustrator’s desk in 2012 and returned to his first love, painting. Since his return his daily dedication and passion to his craft has culminated in being selected as one of the finalists to the BBC’s Amateur painting competition the Big Painting Challenge from which, after a gruelling six weeks, he emerged as the winner. He was crowned champion amateur artist 2015 on March the 29th and today has two of his works hanging at the Tate Britain Galleries.

Paul Bell talks about one of his paintings following the art class "Painting with Ken Currie"

Paul Bell talks about one of his painting following the art class “Painting with Ken Currie” at The Essential School of Painting, 9th of May 2015

 

About Andrew Wamae

Andrew Wamae is the Director and co-founder of the Essential School of Painting (ESOP). He has a deeply held belief in the power of art to transform lives and society, and a particular interest in exploring new models for art education beyond school; championing the twin ideals of excellence and affordability in a highly pressurised sector when university fees are soaring and student/ tutor contact time is at an all time low. Andrew is particularly keen to ensure that the visual arts continue to be supported and thrive well. A creative, innovative and visionary professional, Andrew, in conjunction with his co-founder Alison Harper, has transformed the Essential School of Painting from humble beginnings to an established institution holding from one-day to year-long courses and workshops for all levels of experience; from beginners to postgraduate and professional artists. He has managed to enlist the support of a long list of celebrated artists from multiple fields in the creative industry to teach or lecture at the school or in their studios.