Sean Durkin

Born in North Yorkshire in 1963, British artist Sean Durkin has become one of the UK’s most distinctive contemporary painters, creating richly atmospheric scenes that combine humour, nostalgia and storytelling.

Sean’s journey into the art world began with an extraordinary childhood experience that would shape the course of his life. At the age of eight, he awoke one morning to discover an original L.S. Lowry painting resting on his family’s mantelpiece. The artwork had been stolen the previous evening by his father, John Durkin, in what would become one of Britain’s most unusual art thefts. Rather than seeking financial gain, the accompanying ransom note demanded improved gallery security, Sunday opening for working people to enjoy art, and, famously, that the local Mayor raffle his underpants for charity.

Fascinated by Lowry’s distinctive “matchstick” figures and the evocative atmosphere of the scene, he found himself returning to the memory time and again.
Today, Sean has developed a highly individual artistic style that pays subtle homage to Lowry while remaining unmistakably his own.

Alongside his artistic success, Sean has appeared in numerous BBC television and radio programmes, featured widely in the national and regional press, and has generously supported local and national charities through the donation of his artwork, helping to raise thousands of pounds for good causes.