The Others
Meet The Others: Colin McCallum
The Game Changers. The Rule Breakers. The Innovators. Discover some of the fantastic emerging talent showcasing their work at The Other Art Fair.
How would you describe your artwork?
Having always chosen to live and work in the urban city, my art is inspired by the collective experience of contemporary living. I am fascinated by this imagery and combine aspects of this reality to create an equivalent visual experience. The relationship between urban living and all its technology is a recurring theme and influence in my work. I work in series so I can explore and expand on an idea that develops with each painting. Experimenting with colour, mark making and technique to allow each work to have its own uniqueness whilst retaining the concept and connection to each other. Although each painting belongs to a series it is very much intended to stand alone both visually and conceptually.
What does making art mean to you?
It means freedom, it means a release and an exploration of my creativity that I am always pushing forward and questioning. I have never known a time in my life when I have not been making art, I never considered the idea of not being an artist, I have always found a way to pursue this life. I want to share my vision and whilst it is essential that I produce my art for myself, I get a great deal of satisfaction when I have an audience to view it and comment on it.
How did you get started making art?
I have always made art, as a young child I was painting and drawing all the time and there was no doubt that I would go straight to art school. After my degree I was given an art studio by an East London artist housing association where I lived and worked for many years, it really helped me starting out as a young artist, I’ve never stopped since then!
What is it like to be a part of The Other Art Fair?
It is exciting and addictive! I have done several now and each time it is a different experience, but always rewarding. It is great to meet other TOAF artists who have become friends and to meet new ones too. It is important to show my new work and have the chance to speak directly to prospective collectors, some of whom have never bought art before. There is a buzz around the event and it’s always a bit sad when it ends!
What is your favourite piece for sale on your Saatchi Art profile and why
It is very difficult to choose just one and I am inclined to say that my favourite piece is the one I am going to make next! However, I am very pleased with my new Network paintings, which are online separately but look great as a diptych, Network Black Pink Green and Network Blue Yellow Red. I had made an earlier work called Network a few years ago (which sold) and had wanted to create a new version, this time using just spray paint, I am excited about the direction this series will take.
