Back in Ludlow: Paul Browne’s Artful Adventures

We’re delighted to welcome Paul Browne back to The Artists’ Gallery this month - a painter whose work captures northern skylines, coastal wanderings, and the quiet intimacy of the human form with boldness, texture, and a good dash of northern soul.

If you’ve encountered Paul’s work before, you’ll know there’s something magnetic about it - a fusion of energy, nostalgia, and curiosity that invites you to pause and look again. Behind each piece is a story, and behind the stories, an artist whose creative life has been anything but ordinary.

We've updated Paul's blog post ahead of his return to Ludlow, for a fresh look into his world - from dog walks to disaster fairs, textured paint to Turkish delight.

“Art was always calling - I just didn’t know how loud.”

How did it all begin?

Before the internet, I’d haunt bookshops. I studied the masters, read Van Gogh’s letters to his brother, visited every gallery and museum I could. I was like a dog in the park sniffing out art that would wow me. I had kids young, so my evenings were anchored to the easel. Day job by day, dreams by night.

Any formal training?

None to speak of - I got a D in GCSE art! But I never stopped drawing. I’ve been at it since I could hold a pencil.

What’s the journey been like?

Like a mountain range - every peak reveals another one behind it. Always more to climb, more to discover.

Inspiration, medium, and mayhem

Where do the ideas come from?

Everyday stuff - micro-adventures with my spaniels, overheard pub chat, Radio 4, or just coasting along in the car or on my bike.

What do you work in?

Acrylic paint, textured masonry paint, and metallic wax. I like surfaces that have a story before I even start.

Favourite subjects?

The female form, northern buildings, and British coastal scenes - places that hum with memories and invite you in.

Where’s the studio?

At home, finally. It’s been a lifelong dream to have a space I can call my own.

Pivotal moments and pocket radios

Any big turning points?

Selling my first oil painting back in 1999 was huge. Then diving into the northern art scene and taking part in art fairs really kicked things up a gear.

Any highlights or disasters?

Plenty of both! Jeff Bridges once admired my work - that was a moment. And one absolute disaster of an art fair led to a whole new series inspired by the sea. Sometimes you need the lows to find a new current.

What’s playing in the background while you work?

Radio 4 is the go-to. On Fridays it’s Radio 5 Live, and Sundays are for Cerys on 6 Music. Music’s for after hours.

Creative routines?

A good day starts with tennis, includes a walk with the dogs, a bit of painting, banter with my wife, and ends with a sense of having done something. There’s always mental painting going on, even if I’m not at the easel.

Life’s little joys

What’s in your mug while working?

Coffee or herbal tea. But really, it’s water most of the time.

Go-to snack?

Chocolate and coffee - a classic. Or Turkish delight, which feels like a tiny holiday in the middle of the day.

Come and see his textured coastal scenes, bold figurative work, and beautifully layered pieces up close in September at The Artists Gallery. You might just find one that speaks to your own adventures.

Pauls work can also be seen on his website and instagram page.