Behind The Easel Films

“High-end documentaries with learning embedded.

To be able to watch over the shoulder of world-class artists, hear their thoughts and watch every mark is a completely new and unique opportunity. It’s like a week-long, one-to-one workshop at a fraction of the price, beautifully shot, with the added bonus of being able to return to it again and again. Exceptional value - and knowing you’re supporting the artists in the process feels only correct and really positive."

- Tom Croft

Portrait Artist

"Behind the Easel is doing something really special and unique.

The films are something you'll want to watch more than once. It's a feast for the eyes and will make any artist want to go wet a brush. It is so beautifully done that 30 seconds in I said to myself “oh man, this is going to be good!”. Daniel's film was not only visually beautiful in the way it was filmed but he does a great job of thinking out loud and giving great insights through the whole film. You feel like you're in the room with him peering over his shoulder listening to his thoughts step by step as he considers every brush stroke."

- Sandi Hester

"I learnt more from this one film than I did from years at art school.

This film is a true depiction of the alchemy involved in the creation of art. There is conversation about tools, techniques, pigment and shape, which is interspersed with moments of contemplation and stillness. Daniel Shadbolt is a master of mid tones and to see his process was truly fascinating. From the subject matter and composition, to the colour palette and internal monologue, we get to see every aspect of the painting being created. Nicola Tremain brings us a thoughtful and wonderfully paced film, which is beautifully shot by Pete Allibone.

- Simon Renshaw

Painting Insights Podcast

"This is no ordinary film about painting.

From the very first moments, my heart was pulled in by the beautiful cinematography. I was enthralled by Daniel Shadbolt’s charming discussion of his observationally based painting technique and the intentional thinking behind it. It was a Master class artfully packaged in Directors Nicola Tremain and Pete Allibone’s inspiring vision."

- Suzanne Lago Arthur,

Host of the Creative Contemplation Podcast

“While it certainly offered practical ideas, it went much deeper than that.

It gave real insight into Daniel’s thoughts, decisions, and approach to both this particular painting and painting in general. The film beautifully captures Daniel’s intentional mark making in action. It’s insightful, inspiring, and simply a beautiful piece to watch. I know I’ll be returning to this film again and again.”

- Michael Wurm Jr.,

Inspired by Charm

"What an insightful film, beautifully shot,

And a privilege to listen to Dan talk so clearly about his approach to painting. His mark making and colour harmony is a joy to witness and he talks so well about the influence of earlier artists too. A really lovely film. I shall enjoy watching it again."

- Sarah Spackman

"What is very inspiring to me is that it really explains mark-making in painting

in a very brave and tasteful, clear and intelligent way.

The camera movements and the atmosphere and the lighting are just delicious!"

- Rogier Willems

"A really enjoyable watch!

Have just watched this very beautifully produced film. A great project attempting to record painting in real time.

So interesting to hear Daniel’s observations as he paints."

- Miriam Escofet

Royal Society of Portrait Painters

One thing about launching a new concept is that you quickly realise what you haven’t quite explained! We’ve had a few questions about Behind the Easel, so here’s a little intro to what the films are, and what’s included. As both a painter and a documentary director myself, I wanted to bring these two worlds together. And that’s what Behind the Easel grew out of. We’re bringing the storytelling and production values of broadcast documentary to create a whole new way to learn from artists. Swipe to find out more (& see some frames from upcoming films). Our first film, Expressive Still Life, featuring the brilliant Daniel Shadbolt, is available now at link in bio. “I learnt more from this one film than I did from years at art school” @simonleerenshaw Nicola #behindtheeasel #artfilm #learnfromartists #danielshadbolt #learntopaint

Today’s the day! Get your popcorn ready, settle in and immerse yourself in Daniel’s beautiful Notting Hill home studio. Expressive Still Life | Daniel Shadbolt is now available to purchase and watch on our website (link in bio). And no need for a notebook - the film comes with the full transcript, plus Artist’s Notes written by Daniel himself, to refer back to afterwards. And of course, you can watch the film again and again. Happy viewing! We’d love to hear what you think. 🍿 #behindtheeasel #learnfromartists #paintingprocess #danielshadbolt #artfilm

Ahead of tomorrow’s launch of our first documentary, EXPRESSIVE STILL LIFE | DANIEL SHADBOLT, we invited a small group of artists to watch the film in full. The first responses are now coming in, including this thoughtful review from US-based artist Michael Wurm Jr. @inspiredbycharm The film will be available to purchase and watch from tomorrow, Thursday 17th September. Link in bio. #behindtheeasel #expressivestilllife #learnfromartists #artfilms #inspiredbycharm

📣Delighted to announce that our first Behind the Easel film Expressive Still Life | Daniel Shadbolt is available to purchase and watch from this Thursday, 17th September. Sign up to our mailing list to be first to hear when the link goes live! Link in bio #danielshadbolt #behindtheeasel #expressivestilllife #learnfromartists #artistfilm

Expressive Still Life | Daniel Shadbolt | Official Trailer

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