Paul Burton’s artistic story begins in the most unexpected place: an engineering apprenticeship in the early 1970s. Despite his deep passion for art, Paul, like many of his peers, followed a more traditional path after school. But art was never far from his heart.
How did your artistic journey begin?
Art has always been my passion. During school, I was fortunate enough to attend extra art tuition at the Victoria Institute, thanks to some real encouragement and mentoring. Despite this, I ended up drifting into an engineering apprenticeship, which was common for many youngsters at the time.
How long have you been creating?
I’ve been creating all my life, really.
Did you pursue any specific courses or qualifications?
Not formally in art, but my career in engineering allowed me to travel the world. I was privately educated to a Master's degree level, sponsored by my employers, and progressed to the board of directors at a global company. Still, my love for art never left me.
What has your creative journey been like so far?
As a mining engineer with a background in engineering, I’ve always been drawn to the aesthetic beauty and functionality of mechanical and Victorian-style architecture. My art blends dissimilar materials, especially those influenced by my experience in geology and mining.
Where do you draw inspiration from?
It can be hard to explain where my ideas come from, but they’re often influenced by life experiences. Sometimes it flows easily, like writing a song, and other times I experience creative blocks. I’m inspired by everything from Picasso and Mondrian to Barbara Hepworth and Anthony Gormley. My travels, especially to Spitsbergen and Norway, have also had a profound impact on my work.
What's your preferred medium?
I think my work is truly original, and I love working with a blend of steel, slate, and lead crystal glass. I collaborate with a glassmaker who uses my moulds to create beautiful portals that are integrated into my sculptures. For me, the environmental message behind my work is essential, so I aim to utilise every piece of material.
What's your favourite subject to represent?
Every piece I create has a part of me in it, so it’s hard to pick a favourite. Recently, I’ve been working on tribute pieces to artists like Picasso and Mondrian. One of my favourites is my interpretation of Barbara Hepworth’s “Four Squares and Four Circles” from 1963. I recreated it in steel, slate, and lead crystal - it’s a tribute to her inspiration in my work.
Where do you work?
When I first started, it was in my glorified shed -more than a shed really, with lovely glass windows set into my garden at Kenswick Manor. As my work grew in size, I moved into a converted oak-framed building down the garden. Now, even that space is getting tight!
Have there been any significant turning points in your work or career?
Lockdown gave me the time to focus on new concepts and designs, and I completed more pieces than I usually would for my own sculpture garden. It also pushed me to improve my social media presence, and I’ve sold work through Instagram, Facebook, and bodies like Worcestershire Open Studios. I feel fortunate that I don’t rely on art for a living, and it’s a great pleasure when someone invests in one of my pieces.
Any highlights or disasters?
Thankfully, no real disasters, but many highlights.
Do you listen to anything while you work?
My Sonos system plays an eclectic mix, from music to football - usually Talk Sport.
When do you prefer to work?
I work whenever the mood takes me. It could be early morning or late night- whatever time inspiration strikes.
Do you have a daily routine?
Not really. My days are flexible.
What would your ideal creative day be?
Every day I create is a good day.
What's in your mug when you're working?
Usually coffee.
Do you have a favourite snack?
Anything that’s not particularly healthy!
Where can we find more of your work?
You can see my work during joint exhibitions locally throughout the year.
Paul warmly welcomes visitors to his sculpture garden at Kenswick Manor, where his work is displayed with pride. Being part of The Artists' Gallery in Ludlow is clearly a privilege he treasures, allowing him to collaborate with a group of talented creatives.
Since his early retirement in 2017, Paul has embraced his art completely, finding joy in every aspect of it. He is enthusiastic about the potential for exchanging ideas with other artists, discussing tools and techniques, and finding new ways to push artistic boundaries.
Paul’s mantra sums it up perfectly:
"Be brave, bold, and humble. Your work is as good as anyone else’s. Art is beautiful, ugly, subjective, opinionated, and full of narrative. Put a piece of yourself into every creation."
An inspiring philosophy from an artist who pours his passion into every piece he creates.
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