Tim Shorten

Tim Shorten was born in Bolton, Lancashire. He studied at Bolton College of Art & Design, Preston Polytechnic Department of Fine Art (now UCLan), and Leeds Polytechnic (Leeds Beckett University). He was Head of Art and Design at Altrincham Grammar School for Boys in Cheshire until 2017, and is now a full-time painter.

‘If you could say it in words there would be no reason to paint.’   Edward Hopper

Embracing Edward Hopper’s belief that painting surpasses words, Tim Shorten found his life’s passion from an early age. Through representation and the exploration of human connections, he has crafted a remarkable career as an artist since the 1970s.

Tim Shorten’s paintings, though rooted in realism, delve into fictional realms, presenting places and moments from his imagination. Like a master storyteller, he presents his creations with conviction, captivating viewers;

“What I try to do, rather like the novelist, playwright or film maker, is to present my fabrication with such conviction as to make the viewer believe in it.”

Fascinated by Northern Europe’s narrative painting tradition, Tim draws inspiration from Lautrec, Degas, Hockney, and of course the American Edward Hopper, fueling his commitment to visual storytelling. Beyond visual influences, he incorporates elements from Film Noir and atmospheric film imagery, skillfully blending abstraction and traditional techniques into his compositions.

Throughout his career, Tim has continuously refined his skill, driven by a desire to tell stories through his art. Childhood memories, a passion for travel, and universal themes inspire his paintings, making them timeless and relatable to all.

As technology evolves, the artist remains confident in the endurance of figurative painting. The human need to represent the world through art remains fundamental, transcending eras.

Tim Shorten’s journey epitomises relentless dedication to painting emotional realities and narratives that defy time’s constraints. Influenced by various sources, his art weaves an unending tale, resonating with viewers and leaving an indelible mark on the ever-changing canvas of the art world.