In the Studio with David Skillicorn: A Glimpse into an Artist's Creative World
Updated: Nov 10
In November 2018, I found myself in dire need of a break from the chaos of life. It was then that I decided to embark on a journey to Massachusetts to spend quality time with my extraordinary uncle, David. Beyond being a devoted and encouraging family member, he proved to be an inspiring mentor, guiding me down a creative path he had traversed for the past 25 years.
The remarkable story that sparked his journey stands out vividly. During that time, he ventured to a beach and filmed an interview with a renowned painter as he observed the artist at work. In that moment, a thought crystallized in his mind, "I think I can do that, and yes, I'm going to do it." This shift in perspective was partly influenced by Malcolm Gladwell's book, "The Outliers," which emphasizes the "10,000-Hour Rule" as the key to achieving world-class expertise in any skill through dedicated and focused practice.
“The real purpose of painting is to give pleasure. My work is an expression of joy. Joy in color. Joy in gesture. Joy in the act of creating itself."
David Skillicorn
Uncle David's transformation from a total beginner at retirement to a professional artist is a remarkable story. He began with a clear goal: to showcase his artwork in contemporary art galleries.
He embarked on a journey of learning to paint, mastering the use of materials, and setting up his home art studio.
He actively engaged with fellow artists, both online and in person, visited art galleries, and expanded his network. In a few years, he turned his dream into reality as his artwork graced the walls of art galleries, all while maintaining a healthy balance between his family life, home life, and art life. It's a journey that I greatly admire, showcasing how creative success can be achieved from day one.
"...I would say that I “find” a painting as much as “make” it."
-David Skillicorn
Art by David Skillicorn
At that time, I had been drawing for a couple of years. However, after immersing myself in David's remarkable home studio and witnessing the boundless possibilities that acrylic paints offer, I decided to take up painting.
