Meet Ian | Cornish Artist | Ian David Spencer

'I am often asked: 'Is it a photograph or a painting'?There is only one answer. It is both and neither.

My work seeks to blur and cross boundaries in "spiritual" and technical terms for an immersive and participatory experience.

In doing so the imagination is stretched, the curiosity is aroused and it gives birth to lots of ideas and possibilities.

It then poses more questions than answers. This is very important in my work.

If the technical aspects were more important and I had all the answers to what the narratives in my work mean, then I might as well pack up and go home'

'For me, my work is an alternative view on the world. It is about pushing boundaries, asking questions as well as an escapist experience.

Escapism that is filled with joy and full of soul. I approach every piece with an open mind and a desire to connect the viewer with my ideas and beliefs and be a participant in my own journey'

'In my work, vision and imagination are everything. I could possess the most advanced and most expensive camera kit and digital software available, but if there is no vision, no imagination, no "alignment with the Universe", then I cannot create great work. This is very important.'

'My journey as an escapist artist has had its moments of chaos and despair. But equally, moments of great joy and tantalising successes. There is no doubt: it will continue to be like that for as long as I create great art. It's part of the course. But my vision and imagination will always prevail, come what may.'

Collecting works of art is an experience that provides emotional benefits both in the purchase and in the narrative of the piece. By allowing a touch much deeper within than simply admiring form, texture and colour, the purchaser has become a participant in the artist's journey and feels a much deeper connection with the work and that of the artist.

Buy art that you love and that you will always want to live with. It will return the favour by enhancing your life every time you look at it.

It has been proven that viewing art is very good for the health on many levels. Becoming a collector and lover of art is good for the soul!

Purchasing the work directly from the artist supports their small business and career, helping in the creation of new work and special projects. Also, by buying direct, you form a more direct relationship with the artist and experience more personal service. You have the opportunity to engage with the artist about their creative journey, something that you can't normally do at an outlet or in a gallery. You also have the distinction of having met or spoken with the artist. How cool is that?