SIMEON STAFFORD
Simeon Stafford is not concerned with angst and soul searching!
“There is enough of that in the world of news today”
SIMEON STAFFORD (b. 1956)
Simeon Stafford is a British painter celebrated for his vibrant, energetic depictions of seaside life, bustling towns, and whimsical narratives. Born in Dukinfield, Greater Manchester, in 1956, Stafford displayed artistic promise from an early age. At just 14, he won the Robert Owen Award for Art and the Manchester News Portrait Award, leading to an introduction to L.S. Lowry—a pivotal moment in his artistic journey. Lowry became a family friend and an enduring source of inspiration, encouraging Stafford to refine his style while embracing the expressive and storytelling potential of painting.
Initially, Stafford’s early works reflected the gritty northern landscapes of Lowry and other English northern artists. However, after relocating to Cornwall in 1996, his art evolved, fusing his northern influences with the coastal light and atmosphere of West Penwith. This transition introduced a more expressive and colourful dimension to his work, marked by playful characters, dynamic movement, and a sense of joyful nostalgia.
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A defining characteristic of Stafford’s work is his ability to blend reality with imagination. His paintings frequently feature recurring characters inspired by his own family, including Aunt Dot, a little girl doing a handstand, and Trixie, the family Jack Russell, who lived to 28 years old and remains a resident of Stafford’s home—now stuffed. His works embrace a world full of life and humour, intentionally avoiding darker themes: “There is enough of that in the world of news today,” Stafford says.
WHY COLLECT SIMEON STAFFORD?
Simeon Stafford’s paintings capture the heart with their whimsical storytelling, bright colours, and infectious energy. His connection to L.S. Lowry, combined with his links to the St Ives School, gives his work both historical depth and contemporary charm. His art embodies a distinctive blend of nostalgia and playfulness, making it an uplifting and engaging addition to any collection. As his recognition continues to grow, Stafford’s paintings remain not only joyful and evocative but a piece of history in British contemporary art.
