A talented artist is showcasing his work in his first exhibition.
Allendale resident 19-year-old comic-book artist Nathan Russel has his work showing at The Forge Studios Allendale in room 11 all throughout April.
Something he may have thought would be impossible if it weren't for two art teachers, Neil Cole and Debbi Brown.
Neil, the owner of 'The Museum of Classic Sci-Fi', had previously taught Nathan in mainstream school ten years ago and recognised that Nathan had a unique talent.
"When I first saw Nathan's drawings, I could see that he had a distinctive and entirely individual way of representing the human figure," Neil explains.
"He was drawing his favourite characters such as 'Scooby Doo' to a high standard even then.
"I share Nathan's fascination with the universe of superheroes and historic American animation, including the works of the legendary 'Filmation' and 'Hannah Barbara' studios.
"Throughout his life, Nathan - who is autistic – has found that his artwork has provided an essential means with which he interprets and connects with the world.
"He has worked extremely hard for the last year at Debbi Doodles' studio with Debbi and me.
"We encouraged him to create his own characters and give them a sense of narrative. Over the last year, Nathan has been developing his own ideas and his first comic strip pages.
"Nathan has produced such a significant body of work is a credit to his determination and love of the art form he admires. Unlike many contemporary comic artists who rely on computers to create their drawings, he relies on traditional techniques beginning with pencilling and inking.
"With the help of Debbi, Nathan has developed a formidable colouring style using the latest art markers that produce vivid colours and truly bring his work to life.
"I have also been able to help Nathan become even more adventurous in his figurative formal work and layout.
"Nathan's imagination blends the familiar with his own interpretations to create new versions of iconic characters.
"If you have even a passing interest in the worlds of comic-book heroes, you can't afford to miss the exhibition."
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