Chris Collingwood believes that the foremost aim of a historic painting must be its authenticity; to achieve this extensive research is undertaken, battle scenarios are studied, wherever possible the actual location is visited, replica and original costumes and accoutrements are purchased or occasionally borrowed from collectors and museums. Mannequins along with friends’, family and sometimes even professional models are dressed and placed in position for painting in order to complete the composition.
This attention to detail explains why many museums, publishers and historical exhibitions are so interested in his work, but his real aim is to capture the spirit of the moment, to bring history alive.
His work can be seen in books, magazines and exhibitions worldwide, his private commissions and limited edition fine art prints have been shown in galleries throughout the USA and Europe.
He works solely in oils using traditional Dutch paints which are used sparingly, he adds a quick drying medium so that he can rework certain areas without muddying the design and enabling the building up in layers of the fine detail.