James Merriott

Guest Artist, Opening Exhibition 2008

Born in the East End of London in 1941, James has been painting watercolours for 30 years. James was inspired at a very early age by his Uncle Jack Merriott RI, whose work of English landscapes was commissioned by various railway companies, and reproduced as posters and carriage panels.

James’ career with the London Fire Brigade was cut short in 1978 by the onset of rheumatoid arthritis. To help cope with the pain and disability of the disease James turned to his love of art, and with it developed a passion for portraying the places he loves. His interest in old buildings of Essex and butterfly conservation are also evident in the content of his work.

The basis of his watercolours is simplicity, and he depends entirely on visiting the subjects he depicts and , wherever possible, painting from life.

James is the regular featured artist in Essex Life & Countryside and Hertfordshire Life magazines, he also demonstrates and lectures to clubs and groups, as well as offering tuition to fellow painters and undertaking commissions.