Paul Corfield: A Visionary of Modern British Landscape Art

In the realm of contemporary British art, few names evoke the same sense of peace and nostalgia as Paul Corfield. Born in Bournemouth, Dorset, in 1970, Corfield has become synonymous with dreamlike rural landscapes that strike a delicate balance between realism and fantasy. His work captures the emotional heartbeat of the English countryside, presented through a lens that is both imaginative and calming. More than just paintings, his creations are gateways to serene worlds unmarred by the clutter of modern life.

Early Life and Background

Paul Corfield was born and raised on the south coast of England. From a young age, he displayed a keen interest in drawing and painting, often sketching the rolling hills and coastal views that surrounded him. Though art was his passion, Corfield initially chose a different career path. He worked in the aerospace industry for several years, maintaining his artistic pursuits on the side. However, in 2002, a pivotal decision changed the course of his life: he took voluntary redundancy and became a full-time artist.

This leap of faith marked the beginning of a transformative journey. His love for the rural landscape and a desire to interpret it through a unique lens propelled him forward.

Artistic Evolution: From Realism to Imaginative Landscapes

Paul Corfield’s early works were rooted in photorealism and hyperrealism. He employed 3D modeling software to create compositions, refining details with meticulous precision. While these pieces showcased his technical mastery, Corfield soon felt the need to break free from their constraints.

He began transitioning to a more stylized, whimsical aesthetic, allowing his imagination to take the lead. This evolution marked the true beginning of his signature style—rolling hills that curl like waves, solitary cottages nestled in foliage, and snaking paths that invite the viewer to wander endlessly.

What sets Corfield apart is his ability to compose entire scenes without the use of reference photos or digital aids. He sketches from imagination, letting intuition and memory guide his brush. The result is a world that feels both familiar and fantastical.

Signature Style and Themes

At first glance, a Paul Corfield painting exudes simplicity. But a closer look reveals layers of complexity in form, color, and perspective. His signature style includes:

• Soft, undulating landscapes that echo the hills of Dorset
• Vivid color palettes—bold reds, tranquil blues, golden yellows—that create mood and movement
• Minimalistic settings free from modern intrusions such as streetlights, cars, or telephone wires
• Recurring motifs, such as crescent-shaped hills, lone cottages, and winding country roads

These thematic choices are intentional. Corfield seeks to strip the landscape to its essential, idealized form. He wants his viewers to feel peace, reflect, and momentarily detach from their technological surroundings.

The Role of Asperger’s in His Artistic Vision

In 2022, Paul Corfield publicly revealed that he had been diagnosed with Asperger syndrome. This self-discovery brought clarity to many facets of his life and work. He described himself as someone who values routine, solitude, and quiet focus—all traits evident in his art.

Understanding his neurodiversity provided deeper context to his dedication and unique perspective. It explained his preference for order in composition, the emotional resonance in his use of space, and his uncanny ability to visualize and construct landscapes entirely from memory.

Rather than a limitation, Corfield views his diagnosis as a lens that allows him to perceive and portray the world differently—and beautifully.

Recognition and Critical Acclaim

Paul Corfield’s work has received widespread acclaim in the United Kingdom and beyond. He was longlisted for the prestigious Aesthetica Art Prize in 2015 and was featured in the Royal Institute of Oil Painters Annual Exhibition in 2020. His art is represented by several reputable galleries, and his exhibitions often sell out in advance.

Collectors are drawn not only to the visual beauty of his work but also to the emotional connection it fosters. Whether it’s a quiet sunset behind a hill or the gentle bend of a country road, Corfield’s art resonates with those longing for simplicity and solace.

The Book: Becoming Paul Corfield

In 2021, Paul Corfield released his first book, Becoming Paul Corfield, a reflective piece that offers insight into his artistic journey. The book includes personal anecdotes, early sketches, and finished works that map his evolution from photorealist to imaginative landscape artist.

Becoming Paul Corfield is more than a monograph; it’s a celebration of persistence, self-discovery, and artistic freedom. It serves as a source of inspiration for aspiring artists and a collector’s item for his admirers.

Collecting Paul Corfield: Why His Art Endures

Art collectors often cite several reasons for their admiration of Paul Corfield’s work:

• Timelessness: His landscapes are not bound to a particular era. They are timeless visions of an ideal countryside.
• Emotional depth: Each painting evokes introspection and calmness.
• Consistency: Corfield’s commitment to his vision and style remains strong over decades.
• Craftsmanship: His attention to detail and mastery of oil painting techniques are evident in every piece.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a casual admirer, owning a Corfield original is akin to owning a window into peace.

Influence and Legacy

Though Corfield prefers a quiet, private life, his influence on the modern landscape genre is significant. He has inspired a new wave of artists who merge realism with fantasy, who dare to paint not just what they see, but what they feel.

His commitment to artistic integrity and emotional honesty serves as a benchmark in an industry often swayed by trends. Corfield has shown that there is power in stillness and value in portraying beauty without embellishment.

Conclusion

Paul Corfield’s journey is one of courage, introspection, and unwavering vision. His ability to craft dreamlike, harmonious landscapes from imagination alone speaks to his exceptional talent and inner clarity. In a fast-paced, noisy world, his paintings are a gentle invitation to slow down and reflect.

More than just a landscape artist, Corfield is a storyteller. His stories don’t rely on words or characters, but on light, color, form, and emotion. Through his work, he continues to offer the world a sanctuary of stillness—and in doing so, he secures his place as one of Britain’s most beloved contemporary artists.

Discover the world of Paul Corfield—where every painting whispers peace, and every hill leads to wonder.

CopperMagazine.co.uk