My early career included working in animation, book jacket illustration, advertising artwork, film poster design and graphic fine art for publishing houses. In 1992 I produced my first Limited Edition Fine Art Print for 'The Historic Art Company' this was followed by an approach from 'Cranston Fine Arts' for whom I undertake a considerable amount of work. More recently I have been working with ‘Military Gallery’ & ‘The Hougoumont Project’.

I strive to produce paintings that are historically accurate, which is why many museums, publishers and historical exhibitions are particularly interested in my work, but the real aim is to capture the energy and spirit of the moment, to bring the history alive.

My work can be seen in many books, magazines and and exhibitions worldwide with my latest pieces painted as private commissions and for limited edition fine art prints, appearing in numerous high profile galleries throughout the U S A and Europe. I work solely in oils using traditional Dutch paints manufactured now, as in 1664. I use these paints very thinly, mixing in a quick drying medium so that I am able to rework certain areas without muddying the design and enabling the building up in layers of the fine detail. One canvas will take from 3-4 months to complete.

The vast amount of detail in the pictures necessitates a large amount of intensive research about any new subject in order to maintain its authenticity. This may involve contacting experts, regimental museums, record offices and libraries around the world, buying or obtaining items of equipment, uniforms, armour and weaponry. This detail enables me to create a 'super realistic', style that I hope reflects the techniques, the passion and depth of the old masters that I really admire. My style however is very much an "in your face" view of the subject sometimes having figures coming out of the frame at the observer. This is a deliberate attempt to find a different and more contemporary angle on the subject than that of the classic 19th century military artists.

Unfortunately I am only able to accept a small number of private commissions a year but would be delighted to discuss ideas for new commissions.

Please contact me by email at: chris@collingwoodhistoricart.com