John Yardley's journey as a watercolour painter is marked by his transition from a career in banking to becoming one of the most accomplished artists in his field. Born in Beverley, Yorkshire, England, Yardley began his full-time painting career in 1986 without any formal training. He believes that this lack of formal education has granted him the freedom to develop his unique style.
Yardley's artistic reputation has grown due to his natural talent and flair in watercolour painting. His notable skill lies in capturing the essence of a scene with minimal yet strategic brushstrokes, effectively conveying movement with confident sweeps of paint. His characteristic style involves painting what he sees with little embellishment, drawing the subject, and then applying paint in a quick and direct manner to preserve the sense of movement inherent in both the scene and the medium.
As a member of the Royal Institute of Painters in Watercolour, Yardley showcases his work at the Royal Watercolour Society, where he has earned several awards for his contributions. His artistic endeavors extend beyond England, as he enjoys regular painting trips throughout Europe, producing beautiful studies of iconic locations like Rome, Venice, and the English coast. Notably, Yardley is acclaimed for his superb flower studies, often inspired by his own exquisite garden.
Recognized as one of Britain's finest contemporary impressionists, Yardley has been the focus of two documentaries on watercolour painting. Additionally, three books have been dedicated to his work, with "The Art of John Yardley" being published in 1990. His influence in the art world is solidified by his commitment to capturing the beauty of scenes in a distinctive and expressive manner, making him a prominent figure in the realm of watercolour painting.