Tyneside Artist Launches Prestigious London Hotel Residency

Prominent Tyneside Artist and Lifeboat Skipper to Embark on a Prestigious Residency at a Renowned London Hotel

Mark Taylor, 43, a well-known artist and lifeboat skipper from North Shields, is set to emulate some of the contemporary art world’s illustrious figures after securing a residency at a premier London hotel.

Last summer, Taylor won a sought-after wild card place at The Royal Society of Marine Artists annual exhibition, defeating international competition. His talent has now been recognised by executives at the esteemed London Marriott Hotel Canary Wharf, leading to his appointment as their artist in residence.

Taylor, a father of three, has garnered a strong following with his paintings depicting the River Tyne and the North Sea. Among his admirers are Sam Fender, Duran Duran’s Andy Taylor, and writer Ian le Frenais OBE.

Currently, Taylor has shifted his focus from Tyne to Thames, creating 13 mixed-media paintings that will inaugurate his London residency on 13th June.

These paintings, of varied sizes, portray the commercial landscape of Canary Wharf from a multi-point perspective, highlighting the reflections of the buildings in the ever-shifting surface of the Thames. Utilising a vivid colour palette and collaging with historic maps of the Isle of Dogs, the art pieces capture the vigour and dynamism of the current financial district, whilst also acknowledging the river-based industries of the past.

“Rivers and water are in my DNA,” stated Mark, a coxswain with the Tynemouth RNLI Lifeboat crew. His work with the RNLI involves spending a considerable amount of time on the water, which prominently features in most of his paintings. “London and Tynemouth differ vastly, but they share a crucial commonality – a river that remains as integral to the inhabitants now as it was centuries ago,” he added.

As part of his residency at the hotel, Taylor will also conduct painting demonstrations, which he hopes will introduce his work to a global audience. Drawing parallels with artist Lincoln Townley’s successful residency, he said, “If my residency is even half as successful, I’ll be a very pleased man.”

A representative for The London Marriott Hotel Canary Wharf commended Mark’s work, stating that it “eloquently depicts the evolution of Canary Wharf and the Docklands, which is steeped in history and culture.” The spokesman praised Taylor’s fusion of traditional techniques with modern themes and materials, as it mirrors the transition from the 1800s’ industrial docks to a modern urban landscape, whilst preserving much of its original character.

“The London Marriott Canary Wharf takes immense pride in contributing to this history, and Mark Taylor’s work resonates with the Hotel’s endeavour to narrate the extraordinary tale of the London Docklands and Canary Wharf, from past to present, and onward into the future.”

Taylor’s residency commences on 13th June. His work, priced upon request, can be viewed or purchased at the hotel or through his website, http://www.marktaylorthecollection.com/. He is also available for commissioned work.