Oh No I Can’t Draw - Patrick Will Baker

Truth is I think everyone can draw. I always refer to my artworks as my scribbles. Drawing is simply mark-making and we can all do that. In fact I’m all for doing things the unconventional, or ‘wrong’ way. My semi-abstract style with its bold, expressive mark-making prioritises feeling and mood over literal interpretation. I work mainly in dry media and paint, but also in ink when sketching en plein air.

It will come as no surprise then when I say I am by no means a trained artist. After A-Levels I followed the path of graphic design and illustration, specialising in editorial design. I learnt a valuable lesson though whilst studying. The nature of a designer, at essence, is a problem solver. And that is most definitely what I carry with me at what informs all aspects of my life.

My career focussed on publishing. In newspapers and magazines, then marketing until a health scare and poor mental health provided the spark I needed to make a change. I have since returned to art, initially as a form of therapy but now, as my confidence grows, as an artist. I, like so many creatives, suffer from imposter syndrome and despite some success, I don’t think that will ever pass. Maybe that’s no bad thing though as it keeps pushing me to prove that inner critic wrong. I’m pleased to say that my journey so far hasn’t been without encouragement though. I am hugely grateful for the opportunity to exhibit with The Pastel Society and Chelsea Art Society, and to be selected for the ING Discerning Eye exhibition this year.

Life in a rural community has largely influenced the focus of my practice - notably the natural environment around us and the people within it. Particularly the Suffolk coastline. I’m obsessed with the ever-changing, dynamic nature of our shores. The rich history of Dunwich in particular is of endless inspiration to me. I think we all have those places we feel a special connection to that we can’t necessarily explain? Alongside this I also have a passion for people - for capturing relationships and connections. I’m drawn to the ‘warmth’ of people and fascinated by human nature and the way we interact

My work continues to evolve, from dry media and paint, to continuous line ink drawings and wire artworks. Quitting my job was a huge risk, and it’s been a quite an adventure so far - not least a steep learning curve. But it has been wonderful to meet so many other kind, inspiring and generous creatives. To share my work and, I hope, encourage others along the way.