Rainbow Mountain 1 Print

Oxford/London-based artist William Watkin is redefining contemporary abstract painting with his innovative crosshatch expressionism. Born in 1970 in Stoke-on-Trent, Watkin is a self-taught painter who began his artistic journey in his late forties, first exhibiting and selling his work in spring 2023. Despite this recent entry into the art world, his paintings have gained international popularity among collectors. A renowned philosopher and theorist, Watkin translates his groundbreaking ideas on abstraction and perception into a deeply material and intuitive painting process. His works are bold, textural, and dynamic, characterized by vibrant color palettes, intricate geometric grids, and tactile surface techniques. His signature striped compositions balance strict structure with expressive spontaneity, blending precise layering and scraping techniques to create complex optical effects. A Unique Painting Process: Crosshatch Expressionism Inspired by Gerhard Richter, Bridget Riley, and Ian Davenport, Watkin has developed a distinctive scraping and layering method using customized paddles and notched tools. This technique involves building and removing layers of paint, revealing intricate textures, micro-lines, linear phasing, and offset color bands. His work incorporates elements of: Brutalist architecture Dürer’s engraving precision Mondrian’s grids Polish kilims and woven textiles DNA chromatography and data systems The result is an optical illusion of shifting colors, depth, and movement, making each piece an immersive, almost meditative experience. His paintings reflect the duality of order and chaos, logic and emotion, inviting viewers into a multi-dimensional, sensory exploration of abstraction. High Demand & International Collectors Since launching his career, Watkin’s work has seen intense demand. His debut solo exhibition, "Scrapes & Stripes" (May 2024, Oxfordshire), was a huge success, further propelling his reputation. Within his first 12 months on the market, over 300 pieces have been acquired—ranging from intimate works on paper to large-scale statement pieces. His collectors span the UK, US, and Germany, including notable writers, thinkers, and creatives. Own a Piece of Watkin’s Vision As a rising star in the contemporary art scene, Watkin’s works are rapidly selling out. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a first-time buyer, his bold, textural abstractions offer a unique blend of intellectual depth and visual impact.