Godwin Bradbeer Artist Statement:

'Alla prima' is a term usually applied to 'wet on wet' painting', nevertheless I refer to my fast drawings as 'alla prima' works, done in one go. This drawing is however very fluid, the black pastel has been pushed around by a rag soaked in metholated spirits.

'Portrait Noir' is the tonal reversal of 'Imago Verdi' light against dark becomes dark against light.

I have taught life drawing fairly consistently for 45 years and being jealous of my studio time, I demonstrate in my sessions and keep those rapidfire demos, they are the largest category within my practice. This drawing emerged from the blackness and startled me within minutes.

I felt encountered by my own drawing and by a man proud and emergent from the mess.

G.B.