Stephen Byrne is a self-taught artist working primarily in pastels and oils. Originally from Ireland, since 1986 he calls Berkshire his home. We have been overjoyed to host his solo exhibition at Emerald frames & Gallery this October.

The paintings in Stephen’s exhibition contain scenes or subjects from around the UK and Ireland, and from some of the beautiful countries and places he has visited. The range of subjects extends from landscapes to seascapes, still life to animal portraits, and he endeavours to use colour and light to bring the viewer into the scene and to also allow them to feel and see the subject.

Stephen’s paintings seek to explore and recreate the wonderful beauty and radiance in everyday scenes, objects and animals. His pastels and oils are usually filled with colour and bathed with light; some are treated with greater subtlety where the subject requires it.

Stephen’s style is mainly realistic and lifelike, but he works hard to avoid making simple facsimiles and aims to convey mood, atmosphere and provide a sense of participation. His ability to capture rich tones and incredible detail is faultless.

“Sunlight breaks through fleeting clouds skimming rays of light across the ocean, transforming dull landscapes with vibrant colour. The whole aspect of a scene is utterly changed and charged with colour, altering the mood, opening new possibilities, adjusting the outlook of both the subject and the viewer”.

“Feathery plumage radiates and reflects in order to attract a mate, while also blending into surroundings to disguise from prey.”

Light and colour are the essential ingredients for sight, not only to facilitate discernment and identification but also informing mood, intentions and possibilities.

You can find out more about Stephen’s work here and follow him on Instagram to see more examples of his work.

And don’t forget to keep an eye out for our future artists’ exhibitions - new each month.