Charles L. W. Minty (Artist)

Charles L.W. Minty, commonly referred to as Charlie, is an acclaimed visual artist known for his blend of traditional oil painting with contemporary subject matter, mainly focussed upon depicting life in the City of Bath, and at major events around the South of England; including sport (Henley Regatta; Goodwood Revival) and royal events (Funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, Coronation of King Charles III, Trooping of the Colour). He is a strong proponent of plein air painting and sets himself apart from other artists by painting on a large scale, up to 6 foot canvasses in public places. This is aided by his own large stature, being 6’4” in height. 
His passion for art (drawing and painting) emerged at an early age as a boy growing up on a working mixed diary & arable farm in the quiet country village of Yatton Keynell in the Cotswolds, the rural rustic charm and beauty of which he sought to capture in a traditional style in pencil and watercolours. He recalls cycling to the nearby village of Castle Combe to paint en plein air from life, which he would continue to do throughout his career. He cites seeing watercolour painting of Tintern Abbey by J.M.W Turner in a book as one of his earliest influences and inspirations for beginning to paint in watercolours himself – indeed later on he would revisit the subject of gothic architecture and places of worship frequently with his paintings of Bath Abbey. 
At school Minty was inspired by books of paintings by the impressionists, and he continued drawing and painting in earnest, but rejected art college; instead choosing to learn French language at the University of Manchester, including studies on the history of art and surrealism. His academic background and research provided him with exposure to various art movements that has helped shape his approach to painting – and choice of subject matter. 
Artistic Style and Influences 
Minty’s work is characterized by a dynamic interplay of subject matter; people within landscapes. His intricate detailing sets his creations apart in the world of contemporary art. He frequently draws inspiration from nature, urban landscapes, and the human experience, creating pieces that evoke emotion and provoke thought. 
He paints out of doors: allowing the challenges of painting outside to influence the style of his painting. 
Minty’s influences range from the work of Turner, Constable and the impressionist artists (Monet and Renoir) to John Singer-Sargent. 
Painting from life 
In his paintings, Minty often depicts people and real-world events within familiar landscapes and landmarks. His works are often described as beautiful and personal, as they reflect both the beauty of the landscapes they represent but also the contrasting fragility and temporal nature of human life and activity. 
Painting at Sporting and major events 
Minty has painted at Goodwood Revival at the invitation of the Duke of Richmond, Charles Lennox March, and at Henley Regatta. He was also present at the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II and painted on the Mall during the build up to the Coronation of King Charles III, and at the Trooping of the Colour during the same year. 
Minty has an ongoing relationship with Bath Rugby, painting live at matches at the Recreation Ground in the Gallagher Premiership. 
Career Highlights and Exhibitions 
Minty's work has been showcased in numerous exhibitions. Some of his most significant exhibitions have been in the City of Bath and include the Guild Hall, Bath Abbey and The Royal Victoria Gallery. His pieces have garnered attention for their originality, technical proficiency, and emotional depth. 
Selected Solo Exhibitions 
* Guild Hall, Bath October 2021 
* Permanent show at Bath Abbey 2024-present 
Selected Group Exhibitions 
* Bath Society of Artists 2023 
* New Bath Arts Club 04/10/24-25/10/24 
Awards and Recognition 
Throughout his career, Minty has always believed art to be subjective and shunned his peers and the conventional pathways to success. His approach is to “allow the public see his art by painting outside, and let them decide”. Through the course of his plein air painting, he has been interviewed by national and international news channels; TV, radio and print, and shown on major sports channels. 
Legacy and Impact 
Charles L.W. Minty has carved out a notable place in the contemporary art world, known for his artwork created directly from life and events happening in real time, which resonate on a personal and emotional level. His contribution to painting continues to inspire both emerging and established artists. 
Beyond his own practice, Minty is a founding member of the New Bath Arts Club, which aimed at encouraging emerging artists and supporting existing ones. He is keen to share his expertise with the next generation of artists and speaks at local schools. 
Personal Life 
Though Minty maintains a private personal life, it is known that he divides his time between his home in Wiltshire and painting on the Streets of the City of Bath. He is also a keen ballroom dancer, having competed on the amateur dance circuit and at Blackpool Winter Gardens. His connection to the communities he engages with through his art remains strong, and having previously a keen rugby player himself in the nearby town of Corsham - he continues to be an active participant with Bath Rugby and its charities through his painting. 
Category:People from Chippenham
Category:British people
Category:Art
Category:Paintings