Christopher Spaven
Painter / Illustrator (Perth WA)

Christopher was fortunate to receive his early art school training at Perth Technical College, where the emphasis was on a good grounding in traditional skills such as life drawing.

After qualifying, he had a successful career as an art director and illustrator. As well as running his own studio, he was a visiting lecturer and courtroom illustrator. He turned to full time life drawing and painting eventually, once his responsibilities had lessened.

At all times Christopher works directly from a life model avoiding a set 'nude' pose. The aim is to draw or paint quickly, capturing a moment.

With meticulous observation he creates sweeping, simple, fluid lines, flowing with rhythm and harmony.
He enjoys using different media, sometimes applied in combination on a mixed gesso background.

As well as commendations, he has received awards in three different media:  charcoal, watercolour and oils.
Christopher has travelled widely, sketching in locations as diverse as Arnhem Land and Mongolia.  He also enjoys painting the beach at his home in Cottesloe WA, with two past exhibitions on this theme.

The artist is represented in public, corporate and private collections nationally.

Contact Christopher Spaven
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Exhibition / Award History
2009   Winner drawing award, City of Swan
2008   Group exhibition, Old Butter Factory
2008   Featured artist, Yallingup Galleries
2007   Solo ex. 'Beyond the Trans Siberian',  Artspace
2007   'To Life'  group ex. Stuart St. Gallery
2006   Solo exhibition, Yallingup Galleries
2006   Featured artist , Gallery 360
2005   'Bodyscapes' group ex.,  Gallery 360
2004   Solo ex. 'Signs of Life' , Stafford Studios
2003   Joint Exhibition, Xanadu Winery
2003   'Erotica' joint ex., Gallery 360
2003   City of Albany Airport Art Prize winner
2002   Solo exhibition, Stafford Studios
2002   Guest artist, St. Mark's Annual Exhibition
2001   Solo exhibition, Kidogo Institute
1999   Joint ex. with Jessica Spaven, Inside Out Design
1998   Prize for works on paper, Darlington Arts Festival
1997   Watercolour Prize, Avon Valley Arts Society
1997   Commission of 7 works,  City of Perth