In this article, we speak to artist EJ Courtenay Grimwood, who recently joined Winchester Art Club and is exhibiting at this year's annual show - currently open at City Space until 10 November. Grimwood has had a successful and varied career, having held positions such as Creative Art Director of Brewdog Korea, Adjunct Professor of Art and Design at Daegu University and undertaken work for commercial clients Alexander McQueen London, Sisley Korea, Burberry Korea, and Golden Dew. EJ tells us about joining the Winchester Art Club and her recent artworks.
How long have you been creating and exhibiting?
I have been creating since I was a very young child, as long as I can remember. As an experienced illustrator based in Winchester and London, as well as Seoul, South Korea, I have built a versatile career spanning over two decades.
See more from artist EJ Courtenay Grimwood on Instagram.
What encouraged you to join Winchester Art Club and submit work to the annual exhibition?
Joining the Winchester Art Club has proven to be a brilliant experience as an artist. I was initially drawn to the club due to its strong community of passionate artists and commitment to fostering creativity.
I believed that joining the club would offer me the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, share our love for art, and learn from our unique perspectives.
Submitting my work to the annual exhibition was a thrilling prospect, providing a platform to showcase my art to a broader audience while contributing to the vibrant local art scene. Participating in the exhibition also serves as a personal challenge, encouraging me to grow as an artist amidst the diverse talents and styles within the club. Ultimately, being part of the Winchester Art Club has allowed me to strengthen my bond with the community while also inspiring me to further explore my artistic journey and push the boundaries of my creative expression.
Your works Re-rooting and Beyond the Eyes appear as exceptional microcosms of carefully sketched and softly-coloured organic forms arranged in spindly tondo-like compositions. Could you tell us more about these works and your distinctive style?
Shape of Circle - Re-rooting – Re-born – Healing – Circle of life
Re-rooting is about the roots of resilience and my therapeutic journey through the healing foundation of my mind. In exploring my fascination with trees and roots, seeing the seasonal changes of leaves and trees unfolding from the dark winter to spring and coming to understand the power of renewal. The action of reconnecting broken roots makes the tree even stronger than before.
I use this creative process as a reflection of life.
Pencil drawing is one of the most basic of tools, and yet it can be used to create images of great complexity and depth. To take that which is simple and basic, and to create with it something moving and inspiring is a personally enriching experience.
I initially drew the images on a larger piece of paper to capture more detail of each element, and then resized them to alter the perspective of viewing nature’s tiny intricacies.
As a new member of the Art Club, what advice would you give to anyone looking to exhibit more or join a club?
I would definitely encourage aspiring artists to take the leap and join a club or pursue more exhibition opportunities. Joining an art club or participating in exhibitions provides a fantastic opportunity to meet other artists, exchange ideas and learn from their experiences. Networking can open doors to new opportunities and collaborations that can greatly enhance your artistic journey. Actively engaging with other artists and receiving feedback on your work is crucial to your growth as an artist. Embrace constructive criticism and learn from it to improve your skills and artistic vision.
From my own experience, building an art career takes time, effort, and perseverance. I wouldn't let setbacks discourage me. I believe that being an artist is all about passion, creativity and an open mind. By joining an art club, participating in exhibitions and embracing feedback, you'll not only grow as an artist but also create meaningful connections and experiences along the way.
The Winchester Art Club annual exhibition 2024 is open until 10 November and all of the works are available for purchase. Find out more here.
