The official Paul Horton website

The Icon Collection

Paul Horton has established an iconography through his art that will find its place in art history amongst the great masters and contemporaries of our generation. His work takes the viewer on a journey into another world; a world lost in imagination, enriched in nostalgia and mystery, through the powerful emotions of love and hope. We open the door to this enchanting world and are encouraged to take the path allowing our own thoughts and memories to see this world through our own eyes. His sensitive and compelling development of the central characters and themes has not only earned him critical acclaim but has made a profound connection amongst his many admirers worldwide.

These special editions reveal a great depth and maturity within his work, an artist in full command of his medium and fully aware of his audience. There is a distinctive connection from one painting to another, where the narrative opens up our imagination. He has a remarkable ability to take us on a journey of discovery that mirrors and reflects our own lives.

Paul’s art is instantly recognisable and he has gained a reputation over the last decade as one of the most collectable artists in the UK, creating a simplistic vibrancy of colour and motif to his work, which has taken nearly forty years to develop. He has been described as a pastel specialist, and it is with this flare that he can confidently create his art from his own imagination.

In this body of work Paul has decided to create all five pieces in subtle grey tones with one source of light in each piece, these originals are amongst some of the largest pastel paintings Paul has ever created. This is a unique opportunity to own one of these major limited editions with only 25 being released of each image worldwide.

‘The Unknown’ takes us back in time with this mysterious traveller, who is seen walking the canal basin, alone, against the elements of a stormy night, holding his gladstone bag, a metaphor for the burdens of life. He is a Victorian gentleman, but no one knows of his identity, this unknown character opens up a wonderful era, enriched in intrigue and mystery. The bellowing factories in the distance show that we are not alone; in life we encounter many challenges but we have to stride through them to reach our ultimate destiny.

The Wizard holds the powerful truth to a world of magic, a spellbinding strangelands of wonderment and dreams, he holds the keys to an imaginary kingdom where anything in life is possible. ‘The Powerful Truth’ is a highly symbolic image, lantern in hand he is a guiding light, a figure of hope that signifies change. With magical powers he becomes someone who can lead us out of the darkness.

In ‘Man of God’ the ark becomes a symbol of hope, a saviour for all. This classic biblical story is still relevant today and resonates with much symbolism. Like the ark at sea, life can have its turbulent times but if we look beyond the horizon there will always be a place for love and happiness.

‘Love Shine Down’ is imbued with a spirit of love that creates a bond between the couple and honours one of the most powerful of all emotions. The camper van represents the journey to find love and happiness. It is in these moments that are locked in our memory, a moment lived, that shines a light in your own world.

Everyday a legend is born, in all walks of life, in everything we do, some people are destined to give to the world something of extraordinary gratitude or greatness. ‘The Legend’ is all about the human spirit, the essence of what makes someone stand out from the crowd. The confines of the tenement street become the playing surfaces of the world, and with his desire, passion and dedication, the boy will play come rain or shine, in every spare moment he possesses to achieve his goal.

These five images give us an insight into the mind of such a talented artist and offer an understanding as to why these icons have become the very cornerstone of his world.