Oxford-born Derek has always been passionate about art and moving to North Devon in 1990 gave his work both impetus and inspiration. Colourful oil and acrylic interpretations of coast and moorland inevitably followed, interspersed with more mystical and spiritual works. Occasionally, his mood darkens with canvases chronicling life events, such as his near-fatal climbing accident in arctic Sweden and the extreme pain of resulting operations that have spanned the years since. Derek cites Munch, Cezanne, Van Gogh and Nash among his many artistic heroes. Having exhibited in London, Dereks artwork is predominantly represented by galleries in the South West. Derek also has previously had two successful solo shows and contributed towards several group exhibitions locally.