The artistic evolution of John Corcoran

Born on 18th February 1940 in Nelson, Lancashire, John Corcoran’s artistic journey began at home. His father, a portrait painter and professional signwriter, was his first mentor who instilled in him a deep appreciation for the craft. Hours spent poring over his father’s collection of art books further fuelled his fascination with fine art.

In 1953, John’s talent earned him a scholarship to the Manchester Secondary Technical School of Art, where he developed a strong admiration for masters like Goya and Dali. After leaving art school in 1955, to support his passion for painting, he took on jobs that no-one else wanted to do—including working in a cotton weaving mill, working in Huncoat coal mine and lime-washing pub cellars.

The 1960s marked a turning point when John first visited Cornwall, immersing himself in the local fine art scene. He learned invaluable techniques from established artists like Ray Richardson and Wally Newman. Throughout the 1960s and 70s, he sought opportunities to present his work in galleries across Cornwall, London, Lancashire and Yorkshire, determined to establish himself as a professional artist.

His breakthrough came when Ledgard & Wynn’s department store in Skipton recognised his talent. Their Head of Purchasing, Mr. Kurt, began acquiring John’s work, marking his first major sales. His evocative depictions of Pendle Hill, Wuthering Heights, Wycoller and quaint Cornish fishing villages resonated deeply with the public, drawing attention from prestigious institutions. Soon, his paintings were requisitioned by Harrods in London, St. Paul’s Gallery, London and Talbot Galleries in Lancaster.

By the early 1980s, John had gained significant acclaim, selling paintings for four-figure sums and holding successful exhibitions. His talent took him across the Atlantic, where his work was showcased at Kertez Gallery in San Francisco. Leading UK art publishers, including Solomon & Whitehead and Royle Publications, sought to feature his paintings as fine art prints and greeting cards, with his work appearing on Christmas cards for renowned charities and a set of four collectable ceramic plates by Royal Doulton.

One of his standout achievements came in July 1980 when his print of Wuthering Heights was featured on the front cover of the Fine Art Trade Guild Journal. The following year, his painting The Mill Path earned a place in the Fine Art Trade Guild’s Top Ten Popularity Poll alongside pre-eminent artists including Renoir, Barber and Breckon.

John has also dedicated himself to supporting charitable causes, donating paintings for fundraising events and community projects. He has shared his expertise through free art demonstrations in local schools and to inmates at Manchester’s Strangeways prison.

To this day, John remains committed to his guiding principle: creating art that uplifts and inspires. He believes that paintings should evoke joy and promote a sense of well-being. While his traditional oil landscapes continue to captivate audiences, he has also embraced a distinctive approach to abstract painting, choosing techniques and colour schemes reminiscent of nature.

His abstract works, created in acrylics, complement the interior décor of modern homes and corporate offices, offering the viewer a moment of escapism from the hustle and bustle of today’s busy lifestyles.

John primarily paints in his home studio, where his process varies depending on the medium. Oil compositions require meticulous technique and intense concentration, while abstract works flow more freely from his natural artistic instinct and inspiration.

Explore John's traditional landscapes and abstract artworks.