The Dreamers - Hamish Blakely

Artist Hamish Blakely discusses his latest publication, The Dreamers.

Not dissimilar to "Only With You" this also has a soft lyricism about it. As the title implies, the couple are entranced by one another. They are beautifully lost in their own world and this state of enchantment sems to me, to suggest the celebration of a special event; perhaps an anniversary of some kind. It could be more general, of course, but they seem suspended in time as if they are immersed in nostalgia, transported to another era whilst rejoicing in the warmth of some marked occasion. I think there is also a profound feeling of safety here; they are both looking after each other and, as well as the obvious affection, there is a feeling of nurturing that gives the piece an unusual degree of tenderness. This is echoed by the similar colours they wear. I wanted a "symphony in pink" as I rarely paint in these colours and there is just enough of a difference between her dress and his shirt, to avoid tonal monotony.

There was a great deal of attention paid to the details here; the hands, the movements of the clothing and the reflected lighting. These ingredients all combine to lend a richness and sharpness to the painting. The presence of the 1920s lamp is a reference to an age I spent a good deal of time depicting not so long ago. It also creates a little burst of warmth to the couples surroundings and helps create that touch of sophistication and elegance that can only compliment the intoxicating ambience. Pure romance is the point of this and I hope this is undeniably clear.