When I first saw the work of Luke Hannam I was stopped in my tracks by his expressive drawing skills and also his singular vision. An energetic dedication to drawing and a relentless exploration of images and motifs, often inform his arresting painted works, where vivid colour and that definite use of line weave across the canvas making them instantly recognisable.
Hannam describes the work that he creates as the result of an ‘ordered chaos’ where poetic paintings are made ‘in the eye of the storm’ This heady dose of reality and mysticism are served up by an artist who is continuing the Romantic tradition explosively.
Luke Hannam 2023.
When, where and how did your passion for art begin? When I left school at 16 and went to art school in Chesterfield. The catalyst was suddenly being surrounded by art, artists and creativity.
What does being an artist mean to you? It’s a huge responsibility to shoulder the weight of art history and to play a small part in its continuing evolution.
When was your favourite art produced? Probably in the 1930s - 50’s.
Luke Hannam 2023.
Who or what inspires you to draw to paint? I’m not inspired by people in any specific sense or by a particular place, emotion inspires me.
Have you always wanted to be an artist? Definitely not.
What was your previous path and how does that feed into what you create now? I was and remain a professional musician alongside being a painter. I believe in being ruthlessly intuitive all my pathways rely on this approach.
‘Cat Eyes’ - by Luke Hannam (NOW SOLD)
Your works on paper and your oil paintings can be quite different, which is your favourite medium? They are different only in the sense that night follows day. Drawings are how I investigate feeling and paintings are what I do with that feeling. My favourite medium is oil paint.
Which recent exhibition has inspired you? Phillip Guston at Tate modern.
Is it possible for people to commission works form you? No but they can buy works from me.
Why do portraits speak to you specifically? Everything is in the eyes and the lips.
‘Monument’ 1876 - Phiulp Guston.
Luke Hannams Studio.
Luke3 Hannam - ‘Life’s Uncertain Beneath The Sky’ 2020
Do you have a favourite portrait? Lucian Freud ‘Girl with roses’ 1947.
Where can we buy your work? From Anima Mundi gallery or from me.
Are there any other contemporary artist that you admire? Salman Toor … I love his emotional clarity.
If you could ask one artist, one question who would that be? Picasso.
Lucian Freud ‘Girl with roses’ 1947
Luke Hannam - Nick Cox 2023.
Is there a painting that you have ever found difficult to part with? Not really but I miss them, all.
What is your biggest professional challenge? Being recognised as a great artist.
In a world of increasing despair and darkness, what is the role of art? Art is meaning and meaning is the illumination of the universe.
How do you unwind? Working without interruption.
You can discover more work by Luke at Anima Mundi Gallery and on Instagram @lukehannampaintings
Nick Cox - Jan / 2024.