Towards Trafalgar Square, London,
Circa 2024
Ian Layton
Painting : oil
41 x 30 x 0.5 cm 16.1 x 11.8 x 0.2 inch
One of the last works available by this artist
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About the artwork
Type
Unique work
Signature
Hand-signed by artist
Authenticity
Sold with certificate of Authenticity from the gallery
Invoice from the gallery
Dimensions cm • inch
41 x 30 x 0.5 cm 16.1 x 11.8 x 0.2 inch Height x Width x Depth
Support
Framing
Beige frame
Artwork dimensions including frame
58 x 48 x 4 cm 22.8 x 18.9 x 1.6 inch
Artwork sold in perfect condition, framed, ready to hang
Artwork location: United Kingdom
Ian Layton's 'Towards Trafalgar Square, London' is a powerful depiction of a quintessential British urban landscape, executed in oil on board. As a founding member of The Northern Boys collective, Layton is a leading exponent of plein air painting, known for capturing the ever-changing light and atmosphere of city life directly onto the canvas. This piece exemplifies his mastery in translating the energy and movement of a bustling thoroughfare into a highly atmospheric and emotionally resonant work of modern British art.
In this skilful composition, which is vertically oriented (41 x 30 cm), Layton leads the viewer's eye through the dense traffic and dynamic pedestrian flow towards the iconic landmarks surrounding Trafalgar Square. He expertly uses his rich colour palette and expressive brushwork to suggest the transient effects of light—likely a characteristic drizzle or post-rain glisten—on the street. The composition, painted with a freshness only achieved , manages to find a moment of stillness and beauty within the constant motion of the metropolitan environment, elevating the everyday scene into something profound.
Ultimately, 'Towards Trafalgar Square, London' is a brilliant portrait of the capital's pulse. Layton's dedication to painting directly from life imbues the work with an authenticity that is both immediate and compelling, allowing the viewer to feel immersed in the depicted scene. This dynamic cityscape, rich in mood and exceptional in execution, represents an invaluable acquisition for any discerning collector seeking a truly atmospheric and celebrated piece of modern British art that captures the essence of a London moment.
Collector’s Guide
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Presentation
Ian Layton is a celebrated British plein air painter and a leading figure in the resurgence of this dynamic movement. As a founder member and President of the distinguished collective, The Northern Boys, he stands at the vanguard of a group of contemporary British artists united by their passion for painting directly from life.
Layton's body of work is a masterful exploration of light and atmosphere. His landscapes and cityscapes, created , capture the transient beauty of the natural world with remarkable freshness and energy. This physically demanding discipline is the cornerstone of his practice, as it allows him to observe and interpret a scene in a way that a photograph cannot.
He is widely recognised for his bold application of , the art of painting a subject directly against the light. This technique is a hallmark of his skill and an assurance of his artistic integrity; it requires the human eye, with its superior ability to perceive a broad spectrum of light and shadow, to truly render the luminous drama of a backlit scene. Layton's paintings are not just depictions of a place; they are a successful translation of a complex visual experience, alive with the vitality of direct observation.
Layton's significant reputation is underscored by his exhibition history at the UK's most prestigious institutions. He has been shown at The Royal Academy, the New English Art Club, and the Royal Institute of Oil Painters, affirming his place within both the traditional establishment and the more progressive, naturalist tradition. This dual acceptance speaks to his rare ability to bridge classical technique with a modern, impressionistic sensibility. Further validation comes from his 2004 accolade, the Chairman's Purchase Prize at 'The Discerning Eye' exhibition. This was not a mere award, but the acquisition of his work for a private collection by an influential art world figure, confirming its enduring value and investment potential.
His paintings are held in both public and private collections, cementing his place in the broader narrative of contemporary British art. We invite you to discover the enduring beauty of his work and its profound connection to the landscape.
Painters
British artists
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