Chris Ross Williamson

Chris Ross Williamson is a British artist known for his colourful and characterful paintings that depict everyday life through a whimsical lens. Working primarily in acrylics on board, his distinctive style blends flattened perspective, clean lines, and bold blocks of colour to create humorous and nostalgic scenes that are instantly recognisable. Often set in coastal villages, seaside resorts, or quaint rural towns, his compositions feature stylised figures, charming architecture, and subtle storytelling details that bring each scene to life. He is based in the UK and works from his studio, where he continues to develop his playful and ever-evolving visual language.

Born in Surrey in 1952, Williamson showed a keen interest in drawing and painting from a young age. He went on to study at Reigate School of Art and later pursued a degree in graphic design at Brighton Polytechnic. His background in illustration and design continues to inform his artistic approach, particularly his strong sense of composition, rhythm, and visual narrative. After working for many years in publishing and illustration, he transitioned fully into fine art, where his unique voice quickly found resonance with collectors and galleries alike.

Influenced by the simplicity of early British poster art, naïve painting, and the tradition of storytelling in illustration, Williamson's work captures the humour and quirks of daily life with charm and clarity. His use of a limited perspective-often a flat or elevated angle-invites the viewer to observe a scene as if looking at a diorama or stage set. This creates a sense of timelessness and simplicity, free from distraction, where the essence of the moment is distilled into colour, shape, and gesture.

His paintings often feature repeated characters or recurring themes-children flying kites, couples walking dogs, families enjoying ice cream on the promenade-offering a gentle nod to the routines and pleasures of community life. Despite their stylisation, there is a strong sense of familiarity and emotional warmth in his work. Each scene, while fictional, feels rooted in collective memory, evoking a sense of joy and belonging.

Chris Ross Williamson's work has been exhibited in galleries throughout the UK, and his popularity has grown steadily over the last two decades. He has developed a loyal following among collectors who are drawn to his light-hearted, beautifully composed images and the sense of calm and amusement they convey. His limited edition prints are also highly sought-after, offering accessible versions of his original pieces while maintaining the visual impact and quality of his work.

In addition to his paintings, Williamson has illustrated children's books and greeting cards, further showcasing his talent for visual storytelling. His ability to balance humour, design, and fine art technique has made him a unique figure in the British contemporary art scene.

Now working from his home studio, Chris Ross Williamson continues to explore new compositions and colour palettes while staying true to the themes that define his practice. Through his art, he invites viewers to pause, smile, and recognise the beauty in everyday moments-a gift that continues to resonate widely with audiences across generations.