John Simmons was a phenomenal painter of the 19th century whose work most closely represents the surreal, milky-lit beauty of classic fairy tales.
A member of the Bristol Academy of the Fine Arts since 1849, Simmons was honorably recognized during his lifetime as an excellent artist.
“I dream my painting and I paint my dream.”
― Vincent van Gogh
Simmons’ work is idyllic and dreamlike.
Figures interact on canvas gorgeously; picturesque and delicate in their poses. His use of light is particularly superb and fully expresses the otherworldly wonder of the mythical, magical scenes he depicts.
Much of his work focused on that of Shakespeare, especially “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” His depictions of Shakespeare’s plays bring pivotal scenes to life — loyally representing the dramatic aesthetic of the stage in the process. His depictions of fairies accurately expose their emotive appeal.
“Fairies have to be one thing or the other, because being so small they unfortunately have room for one feeling only at a time.”
― J.M. Barrie, Peter Pan
To view John Simmons’ art is to step into a moonlit dreamscape, fly with fairies, drift off into radiant memory…
Enjoy his art below!
Read our article on the art of James Richardson…
By Jeff Mitchell Originally posted at: https://www.oddnugget.com/the-art-of-john-simmons/
