The National Maritime Museum Cornwall is putting on a new exhibition of twelve original watercolours and seven prints of Cornwall and Devon working craft by Ian Heard.
The show, which runs from 3rd April, includes a newly commissioned painting of a 19th century Gorran Haven Crabber currently being built in Fowey, and based on the only remaining craft of her type. The painting will be auctioned later in the summer.
Exhibition organiser Milly Newman commented that “The exhibition is not just about showing a wonderful array of watercolours, but also illustrates and describes some of the West Country’s finest classic boats. It is evident when you look at the paintings that they are crafted by someone with a lifelong connection and affiliation with Cornwall and its maritime roots.â€
Ian Heard grew up in his family’s boat yard on the River Fal. He studied illustration in Cornwall, before moving to Oxford to pursue a career in design and advertising. Later he established his own studio in the Cotswolds where his work was commissioned by many corporate clients and leading publishers.
Ian returned to Devon in 1993, where he continues to work as an illustrator, graphic designer and print maker, and remains passionate about the importance of traditional draughtsmanship in a world increasingly dominated by technology. His marine illustrations have featured in the magazine Yachting Monthly for many years, and he has produced three books, one of which, Classic Boats of the West Country, is featured in this exhibition.
The show ends on 29th June.
For more examples of his work, visit Faraway Islands website, where high quality Giclée prints are on sale.