The support of his mother and art teachers was instrumental in Heathcote’s success. “I had everything lined up to become an artist, and that’s why I do what I do. I have been painting all my life, and I hope to continue to do so forever,” he says.
The artist studied in Florence for three years under Charles Cecil to learn traditional painting techniques. Utilizing the tools and techniques he learned at school, Heathcote left Florence as a portrait painter.
“I painted lots of interesting people, from captains of industries, celebrities and everyday people,” Heathcote says. “It’s fascinating how people want to be portrayed to look their best and showcase their accomplishments.”
After gaining recognition from his appearance on BBC television painting a celebrity, he was offered a show at a major West End art gallery in London.
“That was the start of it. I was given the show but didn’t have any paintings to put in it,” Heathcote remembers. “So, I went to the library and brainstormed the best process to assemble some pieces. I thought about my upbringing and relatives; one was a pilot, and one was into classic cars. I put those two ideas together and came up with the concept of capturing the essence of vintage travels.”
Heathcote’s elegant vintage travel pieces transport the beholder through time, perfectly capturing the ethos of luxuries of the past. After completing these pieces, a spark of inspiration and excitement consumed him, and he began focusing on a narrative painting that brought the luxury lifestyle and travel back to the present. Using a bright color palette, the artist’s paintings showcase a technicolor world, further integrating the retro glamor of the past into the present.
Since his first gallery show, Heathcote has had many gallery openings around the globe, taking his work to an audience inspired by yesterday’s luxuries. “I hope that when people look at a picture or feel inclined to buy one, they get a constant source of joy and inspiration,” he says.
Heathcote is preparing for a show at Bonner David Galleries in Scottsdale, which will open in December. He has worked with the gallery many times. “I love Christi Manuelito– Owner of Bonner David Galleries. I think she is amazing and talented. Bonner David Galleries is a pillar of the art market in Scottsdale, and now in New York, I love working with them,” he says.
For information about Heathcote’s upcoming show at Bonner David Galleries, please visit bonnerdavid.com.