Meet Johnny Ricketts

Contemporary oil painter based at The Silk Mill in Frome, Somerset.

Originally from New Zealand, Johnny Ricketts has spent years travelling the world, taking inspiration from the places, people and experiences he's encountered along the way. In 2026, he decided to take his painting to the next level and begin working professionally as an artist.

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From New Zealand to Somerset

I've always loved art and the idea that you can start with a blank canvas and create something completely new.

I grew up in New Zealand and spent years travelling around the world. I've seen some incredible places, from beautiful landscapes and amazing sunsets to very different ways of life. Those experiences have had a big influence on the way I see things and, naturally, the things I want to paint.

These days I live in Midsomer Norton and work from my studio at The Silk Mill in Frome, Somerset.

Painting What I See

I've never really been someone who fits neatly into one category.

If I see something that catches my eye, I'm usually thinking, "I could paint that."

My work moves between realism, abstraction and contemporary painting depending on what I'm looking at and how I want to interpret it. I paint what I see and what I like, rather than trying to make everything fit into one particular style.

Learning My Way

I first studied art at school before continuing with night classes and working with a tutor. I also spent a season studying at Gray's School of Art in Aberdeen.

Most of my development as an artist, though, has come from being self-taught and continuing to paint, experiment and learn over the years.

I've always enjoyed looking at the work of other artists, but I've never wanted to simply copy a particular style. I'm interested in finding my own way of seeing and creating.

A New Chapter

I've been painting and making art for years, but 2026 marked a change for me.

At the beginning of the year, I decided to start taking my painting professionally rather than keeping it as something I did alongside everything else.

It's still early in that journey, but it's exciting to see where it can go.

In February 2026, I exhibited as part of a group show at the Bath Art Fair at Bath Pavilion. My work has also been recognised by ArtHouseOnlineGallery, where I was awarded Gold Artist status.

I'm currently looking and preparing for more opportunities to exhibit my work.

Explore Johnny's Artwork

Every painting starts with something that catches my attention.