“In my work I am exploring the connections between the aural traditions, allegory and folklore of the British landscape. I am fascinated by this sense of prehistory, the way it surfaces in old place names and early monuments offering comment on the mysteries of our lives, our existence and traditions. My inspiration is taken from the landscape but I am interested in, and concerned with the point at which the figurative meets the abstract.”

Initially trained as a marine engineer – spending time working on submarines – Melvyn Evans studied illustration at Exeter College of Art and Design, followed by a year at Goldsmiths College, London. He then took up drawing classes at the Royal College of Art under the tuition of Bryan Kneale RA. He became a professional artist, printmaker and illustrator in 1992. Evans has developed a signature style of strong, bold imagery, with inspiration coming from artists such as Edward Bawden, Eric Ravilious, Henry Moore and the St Ives School. His work has been widely exhibited throughout the UK, including at the Royal Academy, the Royal College of Art and Somerset House.

Portrait photo by Jonty Wilde @jontywilde