John Tyson
Artist, Tutor and Photographer
Originally from Yorkshire I have had a variety of interesting careers, from working as a hairdresser, to serving in the Armed Forces. I consider myself to be a seasoned traveler who has experienced the heights of Mount Kenya, travelled across the Far East, and visited Australia and America. I returned to Sussex in 2007 after residing in Lancashire close to the Forest of Bowland and Clitheroe, where I now live with my wife Claire and our sons.
Over the past four years I have created a number of drawing clubs at local schools under the banner of Can Draw Ltd. These after school sessions aim to help the children to improve their drawing skills. I also run club competitions, attend assemblies and I am currently working with three schools helping teachers to improve their art skills.
As part of my own creative development I am writing and illustrating an e-book, based on a year long study of the local area where I live, looking at the seasons and the changes with the flora and fauna along with a brief history into the local iron industry which has helped to shape the current landscape.
Working as a self- taught artist, I have exhibited for the Uckfield art group as well as several local galleries. I have also drawn and exhibited work at John Aspinalls Zoo in Port Lympne and the Wildlife Heritage Foundation in Smarden Kent. I undertake commissions covering many subjects; from listed buildings to dramatic landscapes, from the Scottish highlands to the Sussex Downs. I also give private tuition on an individual or small group basis.
I am a keen amateur photographer and have just completed a module (The Art of Photography) with the OCA. It is a subject I would like to continually improve, both in knowledge and skills. Some of my work can be viewed on my Facebook page, WordPress and Flickr under Can Draw Ltd.
I am studying with the OCA for a degree in Creative Arts in a continuing effort to expand my skills having completed the drawing course I am currently undertaking a painting module in oils. My goal is to achieve a degree in creative arts, which I am studying part time.