Doxstars: An inspirational journey in art
Posted in Doxstars: The things you print on 22 October 2025
Colin paints beautiful landscapes, as well as graphic art and portraits, drawing on inspiration from the likes of Viktor Yushkevich, Andrew Tischler, and Samuel Earp. We caught up with Colin to find out more about his journey in art.
Q. Was becoming an artist in your retirement always something you were planning, or did it come as a surprise or realisation once you had more time to spare?
Becoming an artist in retirement was never on the agenda. We moved to the East Midlands in 2021 (at the age of 63) and I decided at that point to give art a go. I had seen a you tube video on acrylic paint pouring and it looked like something I would enjoy. I tried it and couldn’t get it to work, but then thought I would give more traditional painting a go and found my happy place!
Scottish Waterfall
Q. In what other ways has becoming an artist changed your life? Social life etc.
As I am disabled (I have a long term spinal/chronic pain condition), I’m restricted in what I can do as I can’t sit at all and I can only stand for a limited time. I did try going to a local art group but found it physically too much, so then joined a couple of online art groups. I’m presently a member of the Tisch Online Academy – this has taken my art to the next level. Disability is no barrier to enjoying art, nor is my age.
The Rockies
Q. If you could have dinner with one of the old masters, who would it be and why?
Albert Bierstadt – A German/American artist – a Master of mountain landscapes and the use of light to create great atmosphere in his paintings. I love painting mountains and he has certainly influenced my paintings.
Tales of the Riverbank
Q. What do you listen to while painting, or do you like peace and quiet?
Classic FM – the music just helps get the paint on the canvas.
Icy River
Q. What advice would you give to someone else approaching retirement age, who is looking for a challenge or a purpose?
I have proved to myself that despite disability and other limitations that age may bring, you are never too old to try something new. I hadn’t done any art in over 40 years (six children, 14 grandchildren and well, life in general just got in the way ) …. How I wish I had really found art earlier!! My retirement is now filled with something I love to do.
Glacial Meltwaters
Q. Why did you decide to write a book about your journey in art and who is it for?
To leave a legacy to my family. One that shows that anything is possible if you are willing to pay the price for success. This book hopefully will show my children and grandchildren (and maybe future generations) that whatever path you chose in life, you can reach your goals if you are willing to work hard enough to reach them. My goal was to become an artist – After hundreds or probably thousands of hours of practice…. I think I have achieved that. I’m excited that the journey isn’t yet over…. I’ve lots still to learn and a great adventure ahead – I’m having a blast!
Thank you Colin for allowing us to feature your book. We hope this has inspired other potentional artists to try it for themselves! You can find Colin’s art facebook page here.
If you’ve printed something special with us, drop us an email to service@doxdirect.com and we will look into featuring it on our blog.
If you are planning your own book, check out the easy way to design your printed cover with us here.