Meet the master behind iconic portraits

Kinsman’s portraits are as diverse as his prestigious clientele, from the rock band Kasabian to Saudi elites, renowned politicians, celebrity chefs, and legendary footballers immortalised on Royal Mail stamps. Step into Kinsman’s kaleidoscopic world and discover why he is the go-to artist for commissioned portrait paintings.

 

Inside the studio: a rare glimpse at Kinsman’s latest work

Visiting Andrew in his Italian studio, I had the privilege to view his latest series of large-scale portraits of rock stars created for the Teenage Cancer Trust. Though the stars of this project are still somewhat under wraps, it promises more illustrious subjects to come. Celebrity does not faze him. Kinsman, who is also an accomplished musician, has played the saxophone with Kasabian and Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds.

 

The genius of genre-shifting: Kinsman’s artistic range

Examining his extensive portfolio, I was struck by the variety of his compositions and the distinct moods they evoke. His ability to switch genre is nothing less than remarkable. It’s done with authenticity; there is no ‘off limits’. Some portraits are traditional, such as the one of the late Dame Baroness Shirley Williams, now proudly displayed at Somerville College, Oxford. Others, like the darkly lit portrait of celebrity pastry chef Eric Lanlard smeared in chocolate, defy convention, portraying a more eccentric vision.

 

How Kinsman pushes boundaries to capture the essence

When asked if his clients often request unconventional portraits, Andrew responded, “Having seen my past work, future clients understand that I am always willing to explore different possibilities to create a portrait that truly captures their essence.” This flexibility is evident in commissions such as those for football legends Bobby Moore, George Best, and Bobby Charlton, which had to conform to the format of Royal Mail stamps, and in the more expressive, larger-than-life canvas of rising football star Ian Poveda set against the London skyline, a symbolic piece that became a focal point in his new home.

 

Playful or profound? Kinsman’s unmatched creativity

Among his lighter, more playful works is the portrait of actress Elizabeth Moss blowing bubbles outside the theatre where she performed alongside Keira Knightly in ‘The Children’s Hour.’ Moss’s portrait inspired a recurring bubble motif in several of Kinsman’s subsequent works.

 

In a digital world, why are portraits still commissioned?

Curious about the motivations behind commissioning a portrait in today’s digital age, I asked Andrew about his wealthy, often anonymous clients, including Saudi elites and aristocrats. “Privacy is paramount, especially when painting their children,” he explained. “Each consultation is unique, tailored to capture the distinct character of the subject, whether it’s a family group or a single portrait.“

 

Portraits that preserve family legacy for generations

Kinsman believes the appeal of portraiture lies in its ability to express the essence of what his clients value most: quality time spent with family. “There’s also a sense of legacy,” he said. “Walking through my clients’ homes, you see their history depicted in portraits, telling stories of their ancestors. I am honored to contribute to this legacy.“

 

Why Kinsman’s portraits are the antidote to a fast-paced world

In a world dominated by the ephemeral and artificial, Kinsman’s portraits offer something tangible and timeless. “A portrait painting is unique, a one-off, specifically crafted for them alone. My clients seek the truth, something real and lasting. They choose to leave a legacy through a portrait of their loved ones.“

 

The hidden calm within Kinsman’s larger-than-life works

Aside from his obvious talent, Kinsman’s extensive body of work has at least one other universal thread, irrespective of style: a profound sense of serenity. Standing before his large canvases of rock stars in full motion, I felt completely at ease in the presence of these formidable subjects, a testament to the love and care he pours into each masterpiece.