CHRISTOPHER MARVELL
(b. 1964, UK)

Christopher Marvell’s work is imbued with his patient observations of the natural world. His whimsical animals, birds, and figures eschew extraneous detail while retaining familiar characteristics and conveying both pathos and humour. Marvell grew up in Clacton before studying at the University of Newcastle upon Tyne (1982–6). Later he moved to Cambridge and began working in a studio at Fulbourn Manor with artist and designer Majorie Townley. In Cambridge Marvell met his future partner, the painter Elaine Pamphili, with whom he bought a 400-year-old house which they set about renovating. Working primarily in Cambridge, Marvell also spends time at his home in St Ives and draws inspiration from both Cornish history and the landscape.

Marvell has exhibited throughout the UK. His work is held in public and private
collections in the UK and internationally.

‘Walking daily through the landscapes around the studios gives a constant focus for what I am trying to make. My sculptures have a quiet English based quality of
man and nature. In the way that we hear countryside through Britten or Vaughan Williams. It is the business of observing acutely and recording – of searching for the line and shape and images. You have to make art from what you know about – a celebration of locality.’