Kris Mercer

BIO
I’m a contemporary British painter based in Nottinghamshire.

I create aerial landscapes and seascapes that explore space, distance and perspective. Using photographic reference as a starting point, I rework each scene through colour and composition, distilling it into a more pared-back, graphic view.

Whether painting the patchwork geometry of farmland seen from above or the quiet sweep of sea meeting sky, my work is shaped by an instinct to step back — to see the wider view. Much of it is constructed from an interior vantage point, translating the experience of openness through colour, structure and light.

Across all series, colour is the binding force. I lean into intuitive, sometimes bold choices to evoke mood and movement, balancing stillness with energy and structure with spontaneity.

Though the subjects vary, the intention remains consistent: to create a pause — a moment of perspective — in which both I and the viewer can step back and reconnect with a wider view.

My paintings are held in private collections across the UK and internationally.




Statement


My relationship with landscape has shifted over time. Where once I experienced it out in the open. I now often return to it through memory, photographs and reinte...

Mansfield College of Art - BTEC in Art and Design

2025
Open Studio Notts
Jackson’s extended long list
Longlisted – VAA, Artist of the Year Award

2024
Dame Catherine Arts Summer Exhibition
DCArts prize, shortlisted – Best in show
Longlisted – VAA, Artist of the Year Award

2023
Bringing Artists into View – Worksop Library,
Open Studio Notts
Longlisted – VAA, Visual Art Open

2019
Cityscapes, London And Beyond
Lumi Arts

2018
The Artist Collection
Patchings Gallery.

2017
Clairefontaine Award – The Artist Open
The Artist exhibition Award – The Artist Open
Charlfred Gallery, London
ING Discerning eye, Mall galleries, London
Thoresby gallery 21st Open
Open Studios Notts
Patchings Exhibition “The Artist”

2016
Derwent Award – The Artist Open
Focus Gallery Nottingham
Open Studios Notts
Patchings Exhibition “The Artist”

2015
Solo exhibition – The Gherkin, Hosted by Swiss Re in support of Alzeimers society
Patchings Exhibition “The Artist”
Rufford Courtyard Gallery,
Open Studios Notts

2014
Thoresby Gallery 101
Patchings Exhibition “The Artist”
Thoresby Gallery open
Longlisted for National Open Art (NOA

2013
Outside In: Central exhibition at Compton Verney. Artwork featured
Thoresby Gallery open

2012
Patchings Exhibition “The Artist”
The Harley Gallery Exhibition, ‘H is for…’,

2011...