Rosalinda Kightley: One Year On – Surrey Artist of the Year 2024

Rosalinda Kightley, winner of the Surrey Artist of the Year 2024, returns to New Ashgate Gallery with a vibrant new collection of paintings. Her still-life works are filled with colour, texture, and playful compositions, transforming everyday objects-seasonal fruits, ceramics, and flowers-into lively and engaging scenes. Rather than quiet contemplation, Rosalinda’s paintings exude energy and warmth, drawing the viewer in with their dynamic arrangements and expressive brushwork. Her keen eye for detail and bold use of colour give a fresh perspective to the still-life tradition, making her work both joyful and captivating.

Trained in Graphic Design at Kingston College of Art, Rosalinda worked as a book designer before becoming a children’s book illustrator. She has illustrated numerous books over the past two decades, including I’m a Big Sister and I’m a Big Brother by Joanna Cole, and Friends for Mouse, all known for their warmth and engaging storytelling. This background in illustration informs her painting style, bringing a sense of narrative and movement to her compositions. Inspired by countryside walks and urban life, Rosalinda’s paintings capture fleeting moments with a distinctive charm, blending her love of observation with a bold, expressive approach to painting. Now based in Guildford, she continues to evolve her practice, combining her skills as an illustrator and painter to create works that are both uplifting and full of life.