Derek Watkins, an accomplished contemporary figurative artist, was born in London, England, in 1957. Now based in Southsea, England, Derek is widely recognised for his emotive approach to painting the human form in motion. His current body of work explores the intersection of grace and inner intensity, focusing on dancer and in particularly ballerinas whose poise, discipline, and vulnerability mirror deeper emotional narratives. Rather than static portraiture, his art seeks to capture fleeting gestures, suspended silences, and the rhythm of emotion as it unfolds through movement.

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Derek’s artistic achievements include exhibiting at leading events such as the London Open Art Exhibition at Holy Open Gallery, Art Sussex at Goodwood Racecourse, and the Bath Art Fair at Bath Pavilion. His work has also been featured at Art Surrey at Epsom Racecourse, Portsmouth Open Studios, and Art & Grind in Guildford. His paintings have found homes with collectors both across the UK and internationally, reinforcing his standing within the contemporary art scene.