"Opposing Pair" Drawing

Chris Francis was born and bred in Birmingham and moved to South East London in 1976 - hence his fascination with the local industrial and built-environment as well as its maritime connections.

Art Education in the ‘60s radically changed encouraging more experimentation and exploration which still manifests itself today in his work hence the diversity of various subjects in varied media shown here. Thus there are paintings and drawings of buildings (including two from student days), marine subjects and vehicles, where, paying homage to Degas axiom “Art is not what you see but what you make others see”. Hence It may be the texture and colour of erosion, pollution and weathering of masonry and brickwork of railways, townscapes and cityscapes. Otherwise, showing the effects of tide, rain, wind and sun on derelict quays, moorings, harbours and vessels especially those in a state of neglect, allowed to crumble but enhanced with vibrant marine growth and rust.

In addition, there are examples of experimental printmaking and assemblages utilising the potential of patterns, shapes and textures of wood or baulks of timber and the possibilities of discarded litter and plastic, even children’s’ toys or household utensils.


Although he followed a career in Industry, he simultaneously painted part-time including adult education classes at Sir John Cass College and adult education institutes in his hometown of Birmingham and the London Boroughs of Tower Hamlets, Greenwich, Lewisham and Bexley. Residential courses including Slade Summer School

He has exhibited in London (including the renowned Mall Galleries) throughout the South East, St Ives and Lausanne and simultaneously has works on show at the Blackheath Conservatoire and Stables Gallery in Bexleyheath.

Other works can be seen on his website .

Contact Details: Mobile – 07305615914 e-mail –

And still looking for rich widow with winebar.