Jacques' Newsagents by Mike Finney

Love the Hopper style. It is very well done. A pity the boy's head ends just where the building begins. What medium is it? The roof tiles and reflected window are really excellent. I love pictures that tell a story.

Thanks for your comments Judith. I usually underpaint or tone the canvas with acrylic and then work in oil. I like to allow some of the underpainting to show through to help bind the painting together and create atmosphere.

A worthy addition to your excellent gallery. Takes me back looking at these paintings of yours, I love them. Good luck with the exhibition.

Another excellent addition to your village portfolio. I think Judith is right about the face, a minor detail though.

Love your paintings Mike - don't know much about styles and such but they are great to look at!

Thanks for your comments - Judith/Phil you'll be pleased to know that I changed the boys head in the painting. However, I still need to post the new version here.

Hi Mike I was brought up in Syston, although now living in Manchester, and I only happened upon your paintings. I think they are excellent, but what I enjoy most is that they are how I remember Syston. I lived at the end of Holmdale Road and Jacques' Newsagents was a constant view for me. I remember the prefabs as my friends lived there, and the petrol station.... everything just takes me back. My paper round from Pebberdy's took in the two shops on Barkby Road. Thank you. I hope you continue. My grandparents had the Dog Track at the top of Mostyn Avenue, don't know if you remember that, and although I left Syston from Holmdale Road I lived at the top of Central Avenue as a child. Regards Julia (Durgut)