9th April 2025
Interview with Oliver Pyle
Oliver Pyle is a professional landscape artist based in Sussex, working exclusively in watercolour. Represented by six galleries across England and with collectors both in the UK and abroad, Oliver is known for his expressive, place-driven work and deep connection to the British landscape. Alongside his painting, he is a respected teacher, sharing his expertise through workshops, online tutorials, and international publications.
His latest book, Painting Landscapes in Watercolour – Taking Your Art to the Next Level, reflects his passion for both traditional techniques and creative exploration. We spoke to Oliver about his artistic journey, teaching philosophy, and what continues to inspire his work.
What inspired you to pick up a brush and start painting?
As as child I drew in pencil and ink - almost every day - but was inspired to paint with watercolour when I received a card on my 16th birthday, painted by Daler Rowney artist Alwyn Crawshaw. My response was "I need to learn how to paint like this" and set about teaching myself about the medium.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
I have always been inspired by the landscape - spending much of my formative years in the beautiful landscapes of Sussex and Dorset - and painting it is my preferred way of communicating my experience of the times and places I have experienced there. I have always had an appreciation of art and aesthetics, and entertained the idea of one day being a full time artist, even from an early age.
My best paintings have always been of the places to which I have a strong connection. Walking through the countryside is instant inspiration for me, from the smallest details to the broadest vistas. No matter what genre you paint, always be obsessed with your subject, and inspiration will never be hard to find.
What would be your advice for new artists just starting up?
Try not to consume too much instruction. Some is good and helpful, but with the internet there is too much available from many different voices, and I see many students confused with this and struggling to know how to kick on with their work. Pick one or two tutors that teach technical skills and then practice. Art is not an academic exercise to be learned, but a creative endeavour to be developed over time, so experimentation and practice is the way forward. Trust in your ability and follow your own instinctive path - create, don't copy.
What is the best tip you were told early in your career?
Hard work will achieve results, not 'talent.'
How has social media helped your career?
They are very helpful in building an audience, locally and internationally.
What is your favourite Daler-Rowney product and why?
Artist's Watercolour paint. I don't use many pigments, preferring a limited palette, but I have used these now for over 35 years and I know exactly what they can deliver. The quality never changes, and relying on this consistency in the product makes my job so much easier.
What is a technique that you haven't tried yet that you would love to try & why?
I love experimenting, so I'm struggling to identify anything that I've not tried my hand at.
Explore Oliver's work further here.
