Work of Art
Cheshire based artist Jo Gough on her career success, influences and royal connection
After a professional IT career of 30 years at Cheshire West and Chester Council you followed your passion and entered into the creative world. What was the turning point?
I always had a passion for painting. Growing up there was rarely a time when I did not have a pencil or paint brush in my hand but like many of us, when it came to picking a career path, I started to think more practically about my future. It was a close call between Art and IT, but in the end, I listened to my head and opted to study for an HND in Computer Programming and went on to work for the council for many years. Despite making this career decision, my heart would not be silenced and I continued to indulge in my passion for art in my spare time.
At first, I did this for self enjoyment but as friends and family started to make requests, I soon realised I had the potential to earn a living doing what I loved.
In 2013, I was asked to paint the iconic Liverpool waterfront and the compliments were overwhelming. This was a pivotal turning point for me as I embraced this new genre of painting buildings and landmarks.
Having worked in Chester for three decades, I have a deep connection with the city’s history, culture, and spirit. This intimate knowledge enabled me to capture the essence of Chester's landmarks, incorporate local elements, and infuse my work with a genuine sense of love and admiration for this remarkable city.
My love of iconic landmarks, flowers and vibrant colours have combined beautifully together to create nostalgic paintings of special places.
You create beautiful prints, using vibrant colours and flowers. Talk us through your creative process, what are your biggest artistic influences?
Nature, flowers and hearts are wonderful sources of inspiration for artistic expression. My work embodies a harmonious blend of realism and abstraction, inviting viewers to delve into the layers of meaning within each piece.
My love for colour allows me to infuse my artwork with vibrancy, energy, and a sense of liveliness. Bold and vibrant colours create a visually striking impact and I’m passionate about spreading positivity through my art.
I am constantly pushing the boundaries of my creativity and my journey as an artist has been a continuous exploration and experimentation. I primarily work with acrylic paint applied to various size canvases. I like to play with different techniques like blending, splattering, or layering to add depth and visual interest to my artwork.
My artworks can be found in homes around the world, brightening the lives of art enthusiasts and collectors alike. My works serve as a source of solace, a reminder of the beauty that surrounds us, and a celebration of the simple pleasures that can be found in life.
You’ve recently collaborated with Chester Zoo, with your collection on show for visitors to enjoy and purchase. How did this collaboration come about and can you tell us about the collection?
After painting a number of animal commissions, I found painting animals deeply rewarding. I made contact with Chester Zoo’s retail product manager and was commissioned to paint a bespoke animal range drawing inspiration from their zoo animals and the wonderful array of wildflowers growing in their gardens that support the local wildlife.
From a cute baby elephant to a sluggish sloth hanging in a tree, their collection was a labour of love and my prints are on sale in their gift shop and online store ( gifts.chesterzoo.org ).
Tell us about your connection to royalty.
This photograph of the Queen admiring one of my Windsor Castle coasters was taken during her royal visit to Chester in June 2018. Unbeknown to me, a friend was in the crowd during the visit with one of my coasters in hand. As the Queen drew near she held out the coaster and the Queen stopped, studied the image of her royal residence and thanked my friend for her gift. The moment was captured on camera and it’s a picture I will treasure for ever. I often wondered whether she used it at home for her cup of tea!!!
Do you feel creating or engaging with art improves mental health?
Engaging in art and witnessing my own creative achievements has definitely boosted my self-esteem and confidence. Seeing my artistic abilities develop has had a positive impact on my overall sense of self-worth.
Surrounding yourself with beautiful and visually pleasing artwork can create a more pleasant and calming environment. The colours, textures, and forms found in art can evoke positive emotions and uplift your mood. I am often told my art is happy, joyful and uplifting and so many customers have contacted me with inspiring stories of how my art has helped them process and heal from illness, grief, or difficult life experiences. This fills me with a great sense of accomplishment and pride in my creations.
As a Cheshire based studio, how much support have you had from local Cheshire businesses?
Local businesses have played a vital role in supporting me as an artist. They’ve helped me raise my profile, expand my reach and attract many new customers. Without the help of businesses like The Chester Visitor Centre, Olivia & Smith in Hoole and local museums I wouldn’t have the commercial presence I have today.
A recent collaboration with Kayes the Jewellers in Chester has resulted in a captivating art installation in their window displays. Each piece of Chester artwork is strategically placed to complement their stunning jewellery and aims to capture the attention of those walking by and draw them into a world of creativity and visual delight.
It has been a wonderful opportunity to bring my art to life in a new form and collaborate with a local business to celebrate the beauty of Chester.
Your designs are so good that they’ve been picked up by London based card publisher, Portfolio Cards and your greetings cards are now sold in WHSmith stores across the UK. How does it feel seeing your work shared across the country and do you have any other projects lined up?
Being signed by London based card publisher Portfolio Cards, was a significant achievement and something I am very proud of. Having my greeting cards on sale in a well-known retailer like WHSmith is a notable accomplishment. It's an amazing opportunity to showcase my work and provides excellent exposure as my cards are sent around the world!
Another major project is working with market leading contemporary art publisher The Art Group. To be recognised as an artist by such a prestigious art publisher affirms my art work has reached a level of quality and appeal that is deserving of public attention and recognition. This is deeply fulfilling on a personal level,
St Ives in Cornwall has a rich artistic history and is renowned for its artistic community. For many years I have holidayed there, admiring the beautiful art works on display in their galleries. Last year, I was privileged to become an honorary member of this artistic community. With my artwork on sale in Gallery 38 on the harbour my own creations are now admired by visitors from around the world.
Dubai is my next exciting venture as I partner with a friend who lives out there to launch Jo Gough Art UAE.
Building on these accomplishments will hopefully open doors to even more exciting opportunities in the future.
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