Stephen John Bishop is an artist working in the liminal space between impressionism and abstraction. His paintings are unified by his unique style of thick impasto marks, often accompanied by washes of oil paint. 

Celebrated for his evocative landscapes and seascapes that capture the rugged beauty of the British countryside. Born in 1963, Bishop is inspired by Dorset's dramatic coastline and rolling hills. His distinctive use of colour and light creates tranquil yet dynamic atmospheres, employing techniques from traditional oil painting to mixed media.

That Love is all there is

by Emily Dickinson

That Love is all there is,

Is all we know of Love;

It is enough, the freight should be

Proportioned to the groove.

Artistic Journey and Style
Bishop's artistic journey began early, nurtured by a creative family. His father worked in advertising and photography, while his mother, Emily, foresaw his future as an artist.

He studied at the Berkshire College of Art and Design (1980-1984) and held his first solo exhibition at 21. A pivotal moment was his three-month stay in an Andalucía studio in 1987, which deepened his connection to nature. By 1988, he moved to Dorset, painting en plein air. His self-taught oil painting style features impasto techniques,
creating a spiritual connection with the divine.

Exhibitions and Recognition
Bishop’s work has been widely exhibited, earning a loyal following among collectors.

Collectors include PJ Harvey, Sir Anthony Caro and Mary Portas.

He has received numerous awards, including the Poole Open -
National Trust Brownsea Island Exhibition Prize and being a finalist in the Winsor & Newton Young Artist Award.

Artistic Philosophy and Methods
Bishop’s philosophy centres on nature and spirituality, exploring themes of time, memory, and place, and balancing light and dark. Inspired by T.S. Eliot and the impressionists, his paintings are prayers connecting with the universe.

His dynamic, intuitive method begins with quick sketches and colour blocking, followed by thick impasto oil paint. He contrasts impasto with translucent washes, maintaining a playful and exploratory approach, often working on multiple canvases simultaneously.

Contribution to the Art Community
Stephen Bishop has significantly contributed to the art community, inspiring new generations to appreciate nature. His commitment to environmental conservation is reflected in his portrayal of nature's unspoiled beauty.
Bishop's paintings are emotional and spiritual experiences, inviting
viewers to connect deeply with the natural world. Through his evocative art, he continues to enrich the art world with profound and heartfelt expressions.

Represented by Gallery Tresco in the Isles of Scilly since 2023

Eype Centre for the Arts, Bridport 2004 - 2024

Lighthouse Poole Centre for the Arts 2014 & 2016

Portholes, Brownsea Island, Courtesy of the National Trust 2015

Hackwood Art Festival, Hampshire 2013

Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum, Bournemouth 2013

Oxford Art Week, Bartlemas Chapel, Oxford 2011 & 2012   

Artwave West, Morcombelake, Dorset 2011 - 2019

  
Arthouse Gallery, Bournemouth 2011 - 2014

Chapel Row Gallery, Bath 2009

Highgate Gallery, Highgate, London 2009 & 2012

Solo Show Bridport Arts Centre 1991 & 2007

Poole Open 2014 - National Trust Brownsea Island Exhibition Prize

Bath Prize (Highly Commended), Bath 2010 &2011  

The Guardian - London Lives competition Bankside Gallery 2010 & 2011

   
Royal Society of Oil Painters Mall Galleries, London 2003

    
Laing Sea/Landscape Open Mall Galleries, London 1992, 1995, 2001 & 2002   

BP Open Portrait Competition National Portrait Gallery 1994

Winsor & Newton Young Artist Award Finalist, Royal Society of Oil Painters Mall Galleries, London 1993   

Stephen Bishop loves painting. It is his happy place and he wants to share this passion with you.

He is an artist working in the liminal space between impressionism and abstraction. His paintings are unified by his unique style of thick impasto marks, often accompanied by washes of oil paint.  Typically painted on square format deep edge canvas of all sizes. The average painting size being 100 x 100 cm.