Chris Rigby was born in Lancaster in 1967. He studied at the Storey Institute, Lancaster, Morecambe College (Art and Design) and later the Falmouth School of Art (Illustration). Whilst studying Illustration at Falmouth, Chris developed an interest in the techniques of the old masters. Chris paints outside in all conditions, largely, and feels that this breathes life directly into his work: ‘It frees me up and drives me towards that abstraction which I desire’. Working alongside the most extreme forces of the elements in this way gives his panoramic paintings vigour, power and authenticity that seem to come direct from nature.
Numerous solo exhibitions of Chris’s work have been held in England, Ireland and France at such prestigious galleries as the Origin Gallery, Dublin; The Edge Gallery, Lancaster, whilst shared exhibitions include those held at Islington Art Fair; Gallery Des Arts, Verteillac, France; Ruskin Gallery and Lancaster University. Chris Rigby states that he has been greatly influenced by Cezanne and this is perhaps most apparent in his skilfull and joyous application of colour. That, alongside the energy captured of these majestic paintings, is what makes his work so popular with galleries and collectors alike.
