Self-taught professional artist, Neil Prior from Ainsdale, who needs no introduction to the region, is making a welcome return to the ArtHouse in Southport with a three-week solo-showcase, "Behind the Curtain", presenting six new oil paintings, each a further testament to Neil's artistry and penchant for storytelling.

“Behind the Curtain” – solo show by Neil Prior
ArtHouse, 65 Eastbank Street, Southport, Merseyside, PR8 1EJ
23rd April – 11th May 2024

Stepping into the gallery, viewers are immediately drawn into the world Neil has meticulously created. Each painting commands its own space, inviting the observer to immerse him or herself in its narrative. As the curtains are drawn, the boundaries between reality and imagination blur, allowing spectators to craft their own stories within the rich tapestry of Neil's work.

Inspired by a transformative visit to Vermeer's exhibition at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, Neil has poured his creativity into six distinct pieces, ranging in size and scope. Among them, "Love's Language", the largest canvas measuring 4 feet by 3 feet, beckons viewers into a scene where a billowing curtain frames a table adorned with intriguing objects. Reminiscent of the masterful storytelling of William Hogarth's "Before and After", Neil strategically places a nod to the old master on the back wall of this particular piece, enhancing the depth of its narrative.



Each composition is a product of Neil's boundless imagination, infused with elements of love, deceit, and the possibility of intrigue. As spectators engage with Neil's works, they find themselves not just passive observers but active participants, allowing their souls to intertwine with the evocative imagery before them.

Originally from Christchurch in Dorset, Neil recently moved into the area with his wife, Martha and their two Bedlington Terriers, Bruce and Herbert, who equally stepped from ‘behind the curtain’ by making local news back in 2019 due to eating palm oil that had washed up on Ainsdale Beach from the Maltese ship, Kimya, that capsized nearly 30 years ago after storms dislodged its toxic cargo.

Having retired from full service as a police officer with the Leicestershire constabulary in 2018, Neil has now finally swapped his truncheon for his paintbrush, and evolved his life-long love of oil painting into a professional business.

Unbelievably, Neil only began painting in 2008, after attending a one-day workshop on how to paint in the Bob Ross Wet-on-Wet Oil Painting technique facilitated by Jayne Good, which he quickly followed up with a further weekend course with professional Fine Artist, Mike Skidmore.

Over the years, Neil’s gregarious attitude to art has seen him expand his repertoire across a diverse range of subjects: “I started using oils in 2012 and offered bespoke commissions over a variety of subjects from landscapes, seascapes, portraiture, still life, wildlife and nature and lately, abstract works. I registered as a self employed business in November 2019 continuing to paint commissions and exhibit in local galleries.”

Neil is always enjoys seeking new challenges and "Behind the Curtain" offers a further insight into his creative output.

There will be several opportunities for visitors to ‘Meet the Artist’ when Neil will be in the Gallery on Saturday 27th April(2-4pm); Tuesday 30th April (1-3pm); Saturday 4th May (2-4pm) and Tuesday 7th May (1-3pm).

More of Neil’s work is available to view on Facebook via Neil Prior Artist and he can be contacted for commissions @ neilprior.com.

Certainly not one to be missed, this latest showing by Neil will be on display at the ArtHouse, Eastbank Street, Southport from 23rd April – 11th May 2024. The gallery is open Tuesday – Friday 10.00-15.00. Saturday 11.00-16.00.