THE rugged beauty of the West Penwith landscape is the inspiration behind work by North Devon based artist and illustrator, Richard Stanley.

"While studying for my degree I was living in a particularly remote and beautiful part of Cornwall, Constantine," said Richard who has been a professional artist and illustrator since graduating from Falmouth College of Arts in 2005.

"I was tempted out into the landscape with my paints and paper and haven't looked back since. I found myself spending increasing amounts of time painting in the open air, capturing elements of light and earth in pure impressionistic form."

While many artists carry sketch books with them, Richard never goes out in the car without reams of paper, canvas and paints, ready to climb over a gate if something catches his eye.

"Originally I produced these landscape paintings as a form of escapism, just for me. Just me in a field, recording what I see. I am now lucky enough to paint full time as a living."

The South West is the essence of Richard's work, the beautiful ever-changing landscape of rolling hills, and valleys, and pastureland.

"The fresh air, open space, living in such an amazing part of the world has had a huge impact on my life and my life as an artist."

Nature, is always in transition, so every day he finds something new to paint: changing weather, light, seasons.

"You could paint the same scene hundreds of times and no two would be the same. I draw inspiration from the colours around me, I enjoy experimenting with mark making and surface texture, and always feel excited about those unexpected, what I call 'happy mistakes' when something doesn't go to plan, but you discover a new way of working because of it."

Richard's latest exhibition, West Penwith — Homage to Colour, is at The Great Atlantic Gallery, St Just in Penwith, Cornwall until Saturday, March 27. For gallery hours phone 01736 788911.

www.richardstanleygallery.com.