Statement of intent

I am really interested in the criminal underworld and ‘gangster art’. I have been particularly influenced by the paintings and drawings of Charles Bronson, who has been incarcerated at Her Majesty's Pleasure for the last 43 years. He in turn was influenced by the work of Salvador Dali, and Charles Bronson and has since changed his surname to Salvador. My own work has resemblances to that of Salvador Dali and I gain inspiration from his style.

I also like to paint boxers. In my younger years I was an amateur boxer and so like to look at boxing personalities and include them in my own work. I am very interested in Mohammed Ali, who, in his own words and other peoples, was the greatest.

Up until now I have mainly used acrylics but this year I am going to branch out and use oil paint; I might even combine the two. I like to use different surfaces and in the past have painted on driftwood, slate and reclaimed items like headboards. This year I reclaimed a mirror my wife was about to throw away and am using it to create my art.

I am currently using Facebook and Instagram to maintain feedback for my artwork. I have already sold artwork and often send artwork to be sold for charity. Last week a piece sold for the local lad who recently drowned at Roker. The man in the picture with me is called John Askew, known as 'Honest John' and at 53 years old made his comeback fight to raise money for ...... This painting of 'The Guv'nor' was auctioned off and the money went to the family of the deceased.

Earlier this year, I attended an event down in London at the notorious Blind Beggar Pub, which is where Ronnie Kray shot and killed George Cornell. I took prints from my work, which I sold to pay for transport and my accommodation. I frequently donate my work to be auctioned off for different charities. As well as helping others, this also gets my work recognized.

The intent for my work is to improve in all aspects of my art work and face new challenges trying different medias.