Gill Watkiss

Painting

Gill Watkiss captures the atmosphere, the people and the drama of daily life on the far west coast of Cornwall. The figures in her paintings can seem as humorous characters, though others may see a more macabre and haunting side to them. Whether she paints bridal processions across Cornish town centres in stormy weather, or family outings to Cape Cornwall, her works are as instantly recognisable as the localities that inspire them.

Gill Watkiss was born in 1938, and was tutored at the Walthamstow School of Art and taught by Edward Middleditch of the 'kitchen sink' group of artists. With her late husband, the painter and photographer Reg Watkiss, she came to settle in West Cornwall at the end of the 1950s. From a first lodging at Mousehole, they lived in various locations around the district including Zennor, St Just, and Newlyn. Her work ihas been exhibited around West Cornwall, including Rainy Day Gallery and Newlyn Art Gallery amongst others.