A self-taught illustrator who has been fine-tuning his hobby of pencil drawing over the past four years is on the cusp of distinction.
Charles Machard (56) has drawn dozens of detailed works on paper, illustrating everything from fantasy to science fiction. It rouses the imagination and alludes to satire, and he is becoming really good at it.
Machard is a registered male nurse at 9SAI Battalion and has been a resident of Gordon’s Bay since 2016.
It was 2018, and he was going through some stress at work and feeling weighed down by a divorce.
“I would always doodle as a youngster,” Machard said, “and I thought maybe drawing would be an escape and help me feel better.
“I started with a pen and pencil and some paper, and started drawing fantasy castles and landscapes, which progressed and developed into more intricate pieces, and delved much more into my imagination.”
It was during the hard lockdown, sitting at Potters Pantry in Gordon’s Bay, looking at the ocean and wondering how hungry the seagulls must be that he started exploring more satirical subjects.
And so Machard went on to explore various concepts across an array of subjects, using water colours, acrylics and chalk, each focusing on finer details and finessed over time.
He said: “I delve into a little bit of everything, but I would definitely say my illustrations are mostly vivid evocations of fantasy drawn with pencil and pen. I’m self-taught and sometimes watch videos to learn new things.
“Friends with similar passions also share ideas and advice, and many have encouraged and motivated me really to open up as an artist. My inspiration comes from everywhere, social media, Pinterest and even my dreams.”
Over the past year friends have also encouraged Machard to participate in exhibitions and display his work in galleries and shops.
“I’ve sold about five paintings and it’s very motivating. My artwork always tells a story, and I try to draw in such a way that every time you look at it you will notice something different, like a discovery. My artwork is meant to take you on a small journey and there’s a message attached”.
His artwork can at times take up to a month or two to complete, for it is after all meant to be therapeutic and a means to unwind.
“It’s really worked out fantastically for me. It’s helped inspire me and given me a very positive outlook in life. It’s also motivated me to challenge myself and it’s made me feel as if I am a fully fledged artist.
“Initially I was all over the place, but I think I’ve found my niche and am now where I want to be. It’s been so worthwhile.”
Marchard’s idea is also for is art to be a platform through which he can share this positivity and motivation with others.
Each of his artworks contain the silhouette of a black cat, which has sort of become his trademark. He also encourages others to take up some form of art and experience the impact it has on one’s mental state.
“It opens the mind and works wonders. It doesn’t matter what art you pursue, just find your passion and follow it”..To follow his artwork, follow him on Instgram “Charles Machard Artist” and on Facebook: Fantachard Fantastic Art.
