By Michelle Crean

A local artist who specialises in impressionist art has received the 'Best for Impressionist Painter 2022' award.

Lee Michael Tiller from Coomlumminy, Blackwater, had received an email a few months ago to say that he had been nominated for an award and wondered who the mystery nominator was.

He explained that as an artist he certainly doesn’t paint for competition or accolades but was delighted to be nominated for the award on behalf of EU Business News.

"It’s always encouraging to receive appreciation and recognition for your art," Lee said. "Of course I was delighted to read this, and I’m sincerely touched to receive the award."

Lee said he is often asked why he paints in the style of the early impressionist painters.

"My answer is simple, impressionism was and still is the pinnacle of artistic expression. It invites the viewer to experience a sensation of a moment in time and in nature. We strive to capture the atmospheric effects of light and moisture and air. When I’m asked why I often paint trees, I reply I don’t, I paint the space, the atmosphere and the falling light between us. No other art form can come close to achieving this."

He added that his tutors are the greats of art, like Monet, Pissarro, Lavery and Osborne.

"I am in constant dialogue with them through my brush and expressive daubs of broken colour oils. It’s something of a love affair! I will keep painting as long as I have two arms, a steady hand and the passion to share my vision!"