About the acclaimed Alpine artist Adam Attew
Adam Attew, a distinguished British landscape oil painter, is based in the serene Surrey Hills. He has developed a remarkable reputation for his specialisation in contemporary hyperrealism, particularly focusing on Alpine and winter landscapes. His profound love for the mountains took root during his childhood, when his family would regularly visit the Alps both in summer and winter. These frequent excursions nurtured a deep appreciation for mountainous terrains from a very young age, a passion that is vividly reflected in his artwork. Adam's paintings are known for their breath taking high-altitude scenery, showcasing the awe-inspiring beauty of winter environments and clearly highlighting his admiration for these majestic landscapes.
"My work is about capturing the serenity of snow and how it subdues the rugged nature of rock, appearing to soften everything it touches. The albedo, which is the amount of reflectance of light off the snow, fascinates me. It’s about how the light bounces back and forth over the undulating shapes, bringing light to the darkest valleys. I love how the underlying structures of rock, tree, or cabin poke through, delivering a hard contrast that reminds us of what truly lies beneath." Through his words, Adam conveys the magical interplay of light and shadow in snowy landscapes, a theme that is central to his work.
While his paintings may resemble photographs in their hyper realistic detail, they transcend photographic representation. Adam describes his artistic process as almost meditative, allowing him to delve into the depths of colour, texture, and form. This process enables him to capture deep colours, contrasting textures, and abstract contours, ultimately creating an atmosphere of pellucid grandeur. His works possess a unique ability to convey the serene yet powerful essence of snow-covered landscapes, inviting viewers into a world where nature's tranquillity and strength coexist harmoniously.
Beyond his artistic endeavours, Adam is also an accomplished skier; with BASI instructor qualifications in both Alpine Skiing and Telemark, showcasing his commitment to mastering the art of skiing. To further enhance his skills and knowledge of the mountains, he has trained with various mountain guides and even with survival expert Ray Mears. As a testament to his dedication, Adam is a member of the prestigious Kandahar Ski Club. His passion for skiing extends beyond the ordinary, as he engages in ski touring and even spends nights in snow holes and cabins. These experiences allow him to explore more remote landscapes, providing inspiration and insight into the wild beauty of the mountains that he seeks to capture in his paintings.
When not exploring the mountains, Adam can be found in his art studio nestled in the Surrey Hills of South East England. His creative work is not limited to painting; he also holds the positions of Winter Editor and Lifestyle Editor for Bespoke Black Book. Through this platform, Adam shares his exploration of the mountains via his art, as well as reviews of places he has visited. His insights cover a wide range of topics, from ski resorts and accommodations to equipment and unique experiences, offering a comprehensive view of his multifaceted involvement in the world of winter sports and art.
Adam Attew’s journey is a testament to the profound connection between nature and art. His ability to capture the serene beauty of winter landscapes, combined with his adventurous spirit, continues to inspire those who encounter his work on the walls of Alpine hotels and chalets or during his Artist residence and exhibitions in the Alps. His paintings are not merely representations of nature; they are an invitation to explore the tranquillity and majesty of the mountains through his eyes. Adam’s dedication to both his art and his love for the mountains is a reminder of the powerful influence that nature can have on creativity.
Exhibitions & Artist Residencies to date:
2023/2024 GRACE La Margna in St. Moritz, Switzerland
2022/2023 Atelier LaMarie in Oberlech, Austria
2020/2021/2022 Der Wolf and Hotel Gotthard in Lech, Austria
2019/2020 Gurgl Carat in Obergurgl, Austria
2018/2019 Arlberg Hospiz in St. Christoph, Austria
2017 Part of a Art Collective Show in Mayfair, London
