Andrew Macara British Artist

Andrew Macara, a highly regarded contemporary British artist, was born in Derbyshire in 1944. Although he spent a short period studying modern British art with Leonard Fuller at the St Ives School of Painting, Macara considers himself largely self-taught. This independent approach has helped shape the distinctive style that defines his paintings today.

Now recognised as one of the most individual voices among contemporary British artists, Andrew Macara has enjoyed significant success throughout his career. His unique vision and consistent quality led to his election to the prestigious New English Art Club in 1984, further establishing his reputation within the world of British art.

Reflecting on Macara’s paintings, Professor Ken Howard RA commented: “I have known and admired his work for many years. Although he has painted many different subjects over the years, the subject is always incidental to light. His paintings glow and as with all the best paintings of light they never describe, they are always an equivalent for light – the light comes from the canvas. As well as being full of light, his paintings are also full of life. Whether it be life on the beach, in the playground or in the zoo, Andrew simplifies but always captures the essence of his subject. His work is full of movement, atmosphere and space and his paintings are deservedly popular for he always touches on the everyday joy of life.”

Over the years, Andrew Macara has completed numerous painting commissions for both public and private collectors of modern British art. His contemporary paintings have been commissioned by Sir Anthony and Lady Bamford, the Scott Bader Company, the New Parliamentary Building in Westminster, and the Hilton Hotel Group for their corporate headquarters.

Macara has received many awards for his contribution to contemporary British art, including accolades from Sir Huw Weldon, the Royal Academy of Art Summer Exhibition, Brian Sewell, Gileas Auty and Lord Palumbo’s Choice at the Discerning Eye Exhibition. In 1985 he was awarded the coveted De Lazlo Medal, and his most recent award came from the Royal Society of British Artists in 2005.

Although Andrew Macara travels widely to gather inspiration for his paintings, his Derbyshire roots continue to play a central role in his work. His winter scenes—often featuring children skiing and sledging—remain especially popular, as do his paintings inspired by mountain landscapes in France, Italy and Switzerland. Collectors also seek out his British seaside paintings, alongside his European and Indian-influenced artworks.

Today, Andrew Macara is firmly established as a highly collectible contemporary figurative artist. His paintings are consistently in demand, and many collectors regard his work as a strong British art investment. His ability to capture light, atmosphere and the joy of everyday life ensures his paintings remain timeless and desirable.

A selection of Andrew Macara’s artworks is also available at Red Rag Gallery as Limited Edition Prints. You can view the full collection of Andrew Macara Limited Edition Prints on our website.

In addition to being represented by Red Rag Gallery, Andrew Macara’s paintings have been exhibited at many leading British art galleries. Every Macara painting shown at Red Rag is sourced directly from the artist’s studio, ensuring authenticity and quality. Like all contemporary British art offered by Red Rag Gallery, his work can be shipped worldwide.

Andrew Macara has exhibited with Red Rag Gallery in Stow on the Wold, in the heart of the Cotswolds, since 2003 and continues to be a key artist within our Cotswolds art gallery. His work has also been exhibited at our Bath gallery since 2009, making him an important part of both Red Rag Gallery locations.