Mahalia in Chicago Print

The Artist Although originally trained in Theatre Arts and Portraiture Ian’s work has developed into various areas such as abstract, seascape and landscape. His particular interest in seascapes is born out of his family history which has, through many generations, been involved with marine life. Ian first began his career as a professional artist and designer in the United States, working for two theatrical companies: ‘Best of Broadway’ in New York, and Creative International in Tampa, Florida. He was responsible for the sets for various television and theatrical productions, including ‘1776 Opera’ (Florida’s contribution to their bicentennial celebrations at the Marco Polo Theatre North Miami Beach) the Bette Davis National Tour and the Miss America Pageant in Bush Gardens for CBS television. In addition he has designed lighting and sets for Felicity Kendall’s Queen Victoria tour. As a musician, he was signed up as a composer and performer for United Music and recorded two albums at Swan Yard Studios Islington produced by Curly Clayton. Ian also worked and recorded with members of Dire Straits (Alan Clark and Brian Rowan before going on tour with Tina Turner) In Philadelphia Ian recorded with The Chamber Brothers, Grand Piano and Brian Rowan ( Local Hero) Following his signing to United Records Ian was additionally signed as a performer. His manager Noel Ross-Russell then organised a tour on the Bailey circuit performing his own music alongside such artists as Cilla Black, Jimmy Tarbuck, Tommy Cooper, Sandie Shaw and Lulu. Following this Ian then went on tour performing with the Dave Ritchie Band in the United States performing live for various television studios including National Radio and NBC in Miami. Following his return to the UK from the United States Ian became resident Artistic Director for the Stowe Opera Company, together with two National Opera and Ballet companies. During this period he was responsible for designing various stage sets including Carmen, Cosi Fan Tuti, Trovatore, Carlos, Hansel and Gretal, Rusalka and Onegin. In addition to his Theatrical work Ian has exhibited his paintings at various galleries both in Europe and the UK and he has work on view in Sweden, Japan, China, Australia and Spain.