Geoff Elmer

“I listen to music when I draw because it helps me to remember. I add the words of the songs to my picture. Mostly I use pencils to draw because it’s easy for me but I like trying new things – I really like mono-printing. I like it that I could use touch when I can’t see very well. I find it very calming when I’m drawing, I feel happy and relaxed.”

Geoff started drawing during lockdown as a way to remember his family, friends and important times in his life. His sketchbooks are full of words and images, lines from songs and key events from his life. At times, Geoff explores difficult feelings in his work such as grief and sadness, as well as his happiest childhood memories of beaches and ice-creams with family.

He often draws scenes as if viewed from above, full of detail and colour. Favourite themes are concerts, cricket matches, community celebrations and big events with lots of people and noise. He has lived in Ipswich all his life and likes to depict its buildings, parks and streets. (Charlie Meyer)