ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

George Shaw Discusses Tile Hill, Enamel Paint and Joyce in Podcast Episode

other · 2026-10-21

George Shaw, who hails from Coventry and was born in 1966, has dedicated many years to capturing the essence of Tile Hill, the postwar housing estate of his childhood. His artwork often portrays the estate's homes, fields, and shops, typically featuring only himself as the solitary figure. Through his photographs, Shaw delves into the themes of Tile Hill’s transformation and decay, forming a comprehensive self-portrait across multiple volumes. In a podcast, he shares insights on depicting a person through their environment, drawing inspiration from James Joyce, and discusses the relationship between his themes and enamel paint. He also contemplates the influence of music, William Blake, fantasy artists, and historical painters. Upcoming shows include Albion Groans—Part Two until 14 November, Living Room until 18 December, and My Haunts from 7 May to 27 June 2027.

Key facts

  • George Shaw was born in Coventry, UK, in 1966
  • His paintings depict Tile Hill, the postwar housing estate where he grew up
  • He uses his own photographs as source images for his compositions
  • He works with enamel paint and has made hundreds of paintings of Tile Hill
  • James Joyce is cited among his enduring heroes
  • Albion Groans—Part Two runs at Anthony Wilkinson Gallery, London, until 14 November
  • Living Room, curated by Jonathan Watkins, is at Apt Architects, London, until 18 December
  • My Haunts runs at the Mead Gallery, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, 7 May-27 June 2027

Entities

Artists

Institutions

Locations

  • Coventry
  • United Kingdom
  • Tile Hill
  • England
  • Midlands
  • London
  • Warwick
  • New Haven
  • Connecticut
  • United States
  • Bath
  • Plymouth

Sources