Kevin Blackham

Born and brought up in a farming community in Shropshire, Kevin displayed his artistic talent from an early age. At seven he won a handwriting
competition and he later gained a host of design commissions from local companies all whilst still at school.

Kevin graduated with distinction from Reigate School of Art and Design in Surrey where he specialised in hand lettering and calligraphy. He then embarked on a career as a graphic designer working in publishing, where he designed promotional material and book jackets for many top titles.

Kevin describes his work as original mixed media that combines calligraphy with a wide variety of graphic images. The innovative use of different
techniques and materials adds a rich, textured flavour to each piece, the aim being to give a glimpse into the traditional forms of classical design, whilst combining those elements with a fresh, contemporary feel: the ancient and modern, and the traditional and contemporary sit side by side, each complementing the other.

The year 2000 was an amazing one for Kevin. Not only was he nominated for Best Up and Coming Artist 2000 by the Fine Art Trade Guild, but he was also awarded the prestigious title of Gift of the Year Winner 2000 for his creation L’Architecture I. He is continually exploring and developing new subject matter to ensure that his reputation as one of the country’s leading contemporary artists continues to go from strength to strength.

"I enjoy the double edge of classical design alongside a contemporary treatment which makes me at the same time both restricted and free - a wonderful place to be."