Simon Ward: A Passionate Artist Driven by Cars and Racing
Introduction
In a realm where creativity and passion converge, there’s Simon Ward, a local professional artist who finds inspiration at the intersection of his two greatest passions: cars and racing. With a unique artistic style and a remarkable journey, Ward has captivated audiences with his breathtaking paintings that capture the essence of Formula 1 race cars and the exhilarating world of motorsports.
Early Life and Artistic Inspiration
Ward’s artistic journey began in his childhood, even before formal art education. At just 8 years old, he attended his first Grand Prix, igniting a passion for motorsports that would shape his artistic expression. At school, he shared stories and illustrated his experiences on the race track, his drawings always centered around Formula 1.
Pursuing a Career in Art
Despite his natural talent, Ward initially followed his father’s dream, training as a mechanic for Formula 1 cars. However, fate had a different plan. While living in Oxford, England, he received a letter from his favorite race car driver, Ivan Capelli, who would eventually make it to Formula 1. This marked the beginning of Ward’s artistic career, as he started producing works for drivers and teams in lower categories like Formula 2 and Formula 3.
Journey to America and New Artistic Horizons
In 1989, an invitation from America arrived on a cold November evening, changing the course of Ward’s life and art. He accepted the opportunity to work at Sebring International Raceway in Florida, where he spent 14 years creating eight enormous paintings of Formula 1 race cars. These paintings now grace the Sebring Regional Airport, a testament to Ward’s artistic prowess. His journey in America continued as he attended prestigious events like the Indianapolis 500 and the Sebring 12 Hours, finding inspiration in the vibrant car culture of the United States.
Collaboration and New Challenges
Throughout his career, Ward has primarily worked independently, immersed in the solitude of his studio. However, upon arriving in America, he encountered a new challenge: collaborating with another artist. Leslie Landon, a contemporary artist with a unique style, caught Ward’s attention. Her work, characterized by bold colors and mixed media, contrasted with Ward’s more classic style. Yet, in their collaboration, they found a harmonious blend, resulting in a breathtaking exhibit that showcased both their individual talents and their shared passion for art.
The Essence of “Drive for Painting”
At the heart of Ward’s artistic passion lies a deep understanding of the racing spirit. He believes that racing drivers are driven by a relentless passion, a “bug” in their blood that compels them to compete. He sees a parallel between their pursuit of speed and his own artistic endeavors. Through his brushstrokes, he captures the energy, color, sound, and atmosphere of racing, creating works of art that transport viewers into the exhilarating world of motorsports.
Exhibition and Future Endeavors
Ward’s paintings, along with Landon’s mixed-media work, were displayed at Buzzsaw Coffee in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, until January 31. His second exhibit took place during First Friday in March at the Lycoming Arts Council. Additionally, Ward has expanded his artistic repertoire to include paintings of former Penn State running back Saquon Barkley, Penn State’s 2022 victory in the Rose Bowl, Sean Clifford, and his first cheerleader.
Continuous Learning and Artistic Growth
Despite decades of experience and numerous accolades, Ward remains humble and eager to learn. He acknowledges that there is always more to discover in the world of art, and he continues to explore new techniques and styles. His artistic journey is a testament to the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and the willingness to embrace new challenges.
Conclusion
Simon Ward’s artistic journey is an inspiring tale of passion, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence. His unique blend of talent, experience, and unwavering commitment to his craft has resulted in stunning artworks that capture the essence of racing and the human spirit. As he continues to push the boundaries of his artistic expression, Ward invites viewers to embark on a visual journey that celebrates the beauty, speed, and adrenaline of the racing world.