Ep 87 Interview with Portrait & Figurative Painter Dan Whiteson

Today’s guest is Dan Whiteson, a portrait/figurative painter from London. Since graduating from Central Saint Martins, his work has since been shown in numerous group and solo shows across the UK. It can also be found in private collections all over the world.

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As well as his own painting, Dan also teaches. He created his life drawing classes in response to his own, negative experiences of life classes & creative education. He offers an informal approach with an emphasis on experimental techniques and exercises. He aims to create an environment in which students can feel relaxed and inspired, regardless of ability.

Through the Pandemic Dan took his teaching online to create The Sunday Sessions. These sessions focus on a different artist each week with a mash-up of art history with a drawing/creative exercise at the end. Past Sunday Sessions are also available as recordings and I would thoroughly recommend them.

Some of the things we discuss in the podcast

Dan’s background and how his journey into art began
How Dan felt about art school, and how it didn’t meet his expectations
How he developed his style and some of his influences
Why he has different approaches to creating art from stark black and white, to bright, vivid colours. From graphic and abstract to more realistic.
How he deals with a painting that isn’t working
How becoming a parent changed his life as an artist
How the Pandemic affected his art and business
Why he created his life drawing classes in response to your negative experiences of life classes & creative education in general.
Tips for novice artists wanting to improve and develop their art