Derek Watkins,an accomplished contemporary portrait artist, was born in London, England, in 1957. Now based in Southsea, England, Derek has earned recognition for his innovative approach to expressive portraiture. His current artistic focus celebrates the beauty and complexity of feminine expression, exploring the interplay between timeless elegance and modern vibrancy. Working primarily with acrylic paints, Derek’s signature style blends black-and-white tones with bold shards of turquoise, yellow, orange, and purple, creating dynamic, contemporary imagery that captivates and inspires.

Derek’s work reflects a deep commitment to exploring the subtleties of human emotion through an expressive and layered technique. Moving on from his previous focus on iconic music, film, and sports personalities, he now delves into the timeless allure of the feminine form, portraying his subjects with grace and subtle power. His paintings invite viewers to reflect on the universality of beauty and individuality, using colour and texture to evoke a sense of connection and introspection.