Let the Battle Commence (Canvas) by Leigh Lambert

Battle of Innocence

Leigh Lambert’s “Let the Battle Commence” captures the spirited energy of childhood imagination within a nostalgic setting. This fine art limited edition Giclée print portrays two boys engaged in a mock battle using metal bin lids as shields. Lambert masterfully combines the gritty realism of the urban environment with the vibrant colours of childhood play.

A Stage Set in Stone

The backdrop features a typical Northern back alley. Brick walls, a wooden fence, and metal bins create a sense of realism, enhanced by the muted greyscale palette. In the background, washing hangs from a line between the buildings. These details add layers of depth to the scene. They evoke the everyday lives of the community.

Imagination Unleashed

In contrast to the muted background, the two boys are depicted in vibrant colours. This draws the viewer’s eye to their playful interaction. One boy, dressed in red, wields a stick like a sword, while the other, in brown, braces for impact. Their expressions are full of concentration and youthful exuberance. Moreover, the scene captures a timeless moment of childhood creativity and adventure. “Let the Battle Commence” reminds us of the simple joys of play.

Leigh Lambert

Leigh was born and raised in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, where he resided for the first twenty years of his life. Lambert began to draw as soon as he could hold a pencil, with his family quickly recognising his artistic flair. As he progressed through school his exceptionally detailed creations captured the attentions of his teachers, who admired his canny knack for capturing a view. However, the artist describes himself as mostly self-taught, having received no formal art qualifications or training.

Lambert relocated to Warwickshire with his family in 1996, where he focused on the development of his technique. It was on leaving Newcastle that he began to appreciate the nature of his upbringing; what he had once seen as a concrete jungle now seeming strangely beautiful. Taking inspiration from his childhood, Lamberts pieces have a strong sense of nostalgia, evoking fond memories of a youth that many can relate to.

Lambert is an accomplished artist across a range of media, most commonly working in oils on board. His use of colour is minimal, optimistically applying splashes only to the figures that play amidst the otherwise monochromatic landscapes, capturing the joy and vitality of youth.

Working from his garden studio, the artist has achieved great success in recent years. In 2014 he was shortlisted as Best Up and Coming Artist in the prestigious Fine Art Trade Guild Awards, and consequently his works are hugely sough-after. Limited editions often sell out within weeks, and waiting lists are in place for those hoping to acquire original paintings.

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