The printmaker, Mike Smith, is originally from Liverpool, but has lived in Yorkshire for many years, and now resides in Addingham.
Peregrine. Image: see artist’s website, below.
He works mainly through the medium of reduction lino printing, and his subjects are predominantly drawn from his observations of wildlife, people and places. He has written:
‘My work, based on my own drawing and photography, covers a range of subjects. The underlying theme is, however, that of attempting to capture and make a subjective response to specific instances of location and time. In the momentary coming together of disparate elements and perspectives, I try to create visual narratives that have, in themselves, small significance – but remain essential parts of a reflection of a complete and uniquely personal aesthetic experience.’
Littondale Barn – between Foxup and Litton. Image: see artist’s website.
Mike studied Graphic Design at Liverpool and Newport Colleges of Art, where he learned printmaking in all its forms.
‘I’ve always loved printmaking, the handling of traditional engraving tools and materials – even the smell of the lino and the inks is glorious! The moment a new print is pulled from the press never fails to surprise and excite – no matter how much planning and preparation has gone into a work.’
He taught Art and Design in secondary schools for many years, before concentrating on printmaking. He now divides his time between his printmaking and flying at the Yorkshire Gliding Club at Sutton Bank. Mike is a member of the West Yorkshire Print Workshop and his work has been exhibited across the North of England, including at the Craft Centre and Design Gallery, Leeds; Great North Show (Ripon Cathedral); Witham Arts Centre, Barnard Castle; and Ilkley Art Trail.
Leeds Town Hall. Image: see artist’s website, below.
Website: http://www.mikesmithprints.co.uk/