Bold, bright abstractions of the night

WHEN Tomas Lineker moved into a new house three years ago, he thought some art on the walls would bring a needed touch of colour inside.

Deciding he’d have a go at making his own, Lineker discovered a love and talent for painting bold, bright, layered, and abstract still life pieces.

He got into a habit of practicing when he arrived home from his sales job of a night, and he continues to only pick up his brushes when the daylight hours are done.

His new exhibition at Soldiers Hill’s Old Butcher’s Shop Gallery is inspired by – and champions – these after-dark creative sessions, aptly named Night Shift.

“The paintings are sometimes of flowers, but mainly of flowerpots,” Lineker said.

“I try and choose colours that really stand out, and that’s the main thing I really like about painting; choosing colours that go together, but aren’t normally put together.

“They sort of clash, but they work with each other well. I’m trying to chase that perfect colour scheme.”

All paintings on display in the Gallery are for sale, from small works to pieces as large as 1.7 metres tall.

The son of a visual artist, Lineker has independently developed his unique style with much experimentation, and trial and error, while trusting his natural flair and the feedback of the art-lovers in his life.

He hopes visitors to the Old Butcher’s Shop enjoy his strong use of colour, and the chance to engage with a “form of artwork they haven’t seen before.”

Night Shift runs until the end of January at 112 Seymour Street, Soldiers Hill.