Introducing “Guns’ Toast” : A Celebration of British Countryside Heritage and Art
I’m thrilled to announce that my latest artwork, titled “Guns’ Toast,” is now available to purchase. This piece pays homage to the rich traditions of British countryside life, capturing the essence of the shoot and the timeless camaraderie of a day spent in the fields. With a Land Rover Series 1 bonnet as its canvas and an evocative depiction of a feathered country gentleman, “Guns’ Toast” is more than just an artwork—it’s a tribute to the heritage of rural Britain and a celebration of its storied past.
The Canvas: A Land Rover Series 1 Bonnet Crafted from History
The canvas for this unique piece is the bonnet of a Land Rover Series 1, a vehicle synonymous with rugged landscapes and the spirit of adventure. The bonnet itself is made from Birmabright, an aluminium alloy used in the post-war era due to a shortage of steel. This material choice not only symbolises resilience but also ties in perfectly with the history and functionality of the Land Rover. By painting on such a historic piece of metal, I aimed to blend the artistry of the modern countryside with the utilitarian charm of an iconic vehicle.
The Artwork: “Guns’ Toast” and the Feathered Aristocrat
The centerpiece of “Guns’ Toast” is a pheasant depicted as a country gentleman, dressed in a vintage flying jacket, with a shotgun resting at his side. Perched on a wicker basket, a pint of beer sits nearby—an image that conjures up the end of a successful day’s shoot, where the guns gather to toast the day’s sport and camaraderie. This character, embodying the traits of the quintessential countryside gent, serves as a metaphor for the rituals and traditions that define a day’s shooting.
The pheasant is painted in meticulous detail, its vibrant plumage and aristocratic pose making it almost lifelike. Behind the gentlemanly pheasant is an aircraft roundel—a visual nod to wartime heritage. The roundel not only adds depth to the image but also acts as a symbol of stability, evoking the sense of home and peacetime life, even amidst the chaos of modern times.
The Story Behind the Name: “Guns’ Toast”
The title of the piece, “Guns’ Toast,” is a direct reference to the celebratory moment at the end of a traditional British shoot. After a series of drives, the guns (the term for participants in the shoot) gather to reflect on the day’s events, raise a glass, and honour the sport, the countryside, and each other. This piece captures that very spirit—the camaraderie, the shared stories, and the enduring customs of rural sporting life. The pheasant, dressed as a distinguished shooter, becomes a stand-in for the country gent, celebrating tradition and the essence of community.
The Perfect Blend: Tradition, Art, and British Craftsmanship
“Guns’ Toast” is not merely a painting—it’s a tactile, multidimensional artwork. The final touches include some intricate metalwork added to the bonnet, complementing the painted scene and bringing the entire piece to life. This blend of painted and physical elements ensures that the artwork is both visually and texturally engaging, making it a perfect centerpiece for anyone who values tradition and craftsmanship.
The heritage of the Land Rover, the symbolism of the pheasant, and the spirit of the countryside are all interwoven in this piece, creating an artwork that will resonate with collectors, Land Rover enthusiasts, and lovers of British sporting life alike.
A Unique Opportunity to Own a Piece of British Countryside Culture
If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind piece that tells a story and captures the spirit of rural Britain, then “Guns’ Toast” is the perfect addition to your collection. The combination of automotive heritage, rich visual storytelling, and fine craftsmanship makes this artwork truly unique. It’s a tribute to the traditions of the shoot, the resilience of the countryside, and the enduring allure of the Land Rover.
“Guns’ Toast” is now available to purchase, offering a rare opportunity to own a piece of art that is as distinctive as it is meaningful. Whether you’re a connoisseur of art, a shooting enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of countryside life, this piece will serve as a lasting reminder of the elegance and tradition that define the British rural experience.
Medium: Acrylic, Sealed
Size: Width 139cm narrowing to 81cm; Height: 95cm
Available to purchase for £7,500 for this truly unique one off original artwork.
