“It’s a purely natural and innate thing in me. It’s always been there. The less I have to think and just paint…the better.” Neil Shawcross

Neil Shawcross grew up and studied art in Lancashire, England before moving to Ireland in 1962 to teach art. Ever since he has considered himself to be a proud Ulster man.

Renowned for his portrait paintings he has immortalised several well know individuals such as fellow artist Colin Middleton and novelist Francis Stuart.

Northern Visions along with Studio 23 were granted the unique opportunity to sit in with Neil during a live painting of his chosen subject Paul Charles as part of Neil’s ‘Hats & Heads’ series in his home studio based in Belfast.

During this process Neil recollects his love of Ireland, teaching art, his greatest influences and confesses what he loves most about his work.