Duncan Mclaren completed a Graphic Design course at Blackpool College of Art in 1965.
In 1967 he moved to London and whilst continuing to work as a designer he also began to develop as an illustrator. He has illustrated over 25 books, mainly for children, one series of bible stories alone selling nearly 4 million copies around the world in 17 languages. Easy access to the London art world triggered the need to paint and very early Influences were Arthur Boyd and Peter Lanyon. Later influences include Hughie O’ Donoghue, June Redfern and Anthony Fry.
He moved to Wales in 1989 and lives in the small village of Bethlehem on the edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park.
Not interested in pure representation, his work is a response to landscape, memories and the abstract world of imagination, encouraging the viewer to personally interpret, rather than passively respond to each subject. It is difficult to analyse where the imagery originates, as it can be both personal and intuitive. A canvas usually begins with a particular idea but then changes and evolves in a completely different direction. Chance plays a huge part in the process..
He has exhibited with several galleries in London and Wales and has had work selected for the National Eisteddfod. His paintings and drawings are in a number of public and private collections throughout the UK and France.
Exhibited work
Grundy Art Gallery, Blackpool
Chelsea Artists, London
Jablonski Gallery London
Richmond Gallery, Cork St, London
National Eisteddfod of Wales
Castle Museum & Art Gallery, Haverfordwest
Fountain Fine Art, Llandeilo
Kooywood Gallery, Cardiff
Bebb Fine Art, Ludlow
Oriel Q, Narberth
Art at the Hall, Llangathen
Royal Academy, London