The Artistic Journey of a Peterborough Laureate: From Music to Canvas
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This artist's story is a captivating blend of dedication, experience, and a love for visual arts. Hailing from St. Vincent in the Caribbean, their artistic journey began with encouragement from art teachers during their secondary school years in London.
For over 25 years, they were a fixture in the music industry, designing record sleeves, posters, and magazines. They even ran their own graphic design studio during this time. However, the call to create art directly proved stronger.
A pivotal moment came with the title of Peterborough Photo Laureate and a civic award, recognising their contributions to arts and culture. This marked a shift towards becoming a full-time artist and art tutor, inspiring both adults and young people for the past six years.
Their artistic influences are rich and varied, drawing inspiration from nature, people, surrealism, life itself, and the works of fellow artists. This passion translates into a love for painting "just about anything," often using music as a creative companion.
A lifelong learner, the artist continuously strives to improve their work, hoping to evoke emotions and engage the viewer. Their diverse artistic toolbox includes pencils, charcoal, pastels, oils, watercolours, and even stipple-dot drawings. While primarily self-taught, they also honed their skills through formal training at the London Guildhall University.
Their artistic journey began publicly at the former Peterborough Art House, culminating in a solo exhibition in 2008. Today, their artwork graces homes and private collections worldwide.
Beyond their own success, they actively promote local art in Peterborough, holding committee positions in two art groups. Their commitment to social awareness is evident in their past works featuring local dignitaries and their involvement in promoting Black History Month and diversity initiatives. A personal highlight includes showcasing their "Black Heroes" collection at Wembley Stadium.
This artist's ongoing pursuit of the "Absence of Presence" concept adds a unique layer to their work. By using marks, colours, and strategic omissions, they invite viewers to participate in the creative process, imagining what might be there and adding depth to the piece. Embracing the abstract nature of their art, they find excitement in the unknown outcome of each stroke, emphasizing the importance of what's left out in creating the final image.
To experience Tony's work first-hand, visit the Apple Blossom Pink Home and Lifestyle Shop in The Market Place, Oakham, Rutland.
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You can find out more about tony and his work by visiting his website: www:artoftonynero.com
or follow 'The Art of Tony Nero' on X @ArtofTonyNero
www.facebook.com/ArtofTonyNero
and instagram.
