Paul Birch 

Paul grew up close to Bingley and has lived in Ilkley for the last 20 years. His paintings are usually in acrylic and carvings in wood and/or stone, but other materials can also be used in a piece of work. His work is largely abstract, but the paintings are inspired by the landscape, particularly the surrounding countryside. Carved sculptures may develop from specific initial ideas or, more reactively, in response to the material being used. In recent years, an annual visit to an atelier near Berlin, working alongside other artists, has allowed him to further refine his techniques.