Many of Simon’s early paintings were a combination of realism and abstract styles. They are intended to initiate reactions in the observer rather than send a hidden message. Simon believes that it is best if we take a personal view and interpretation of a painting rather than dictate a meaning to the viewer. A one man show at Southampton College Art Gallery launched this initial style.
This particular body of early work was extremely well received by the Art World. One of these paintings has in turn won the vote for painting of the open exhibition at Southampton Art Gallery. This was a public vote and Simon’s painting of 3 boys at a bus stop was voted best painting overall.
Simon exhibited all of these paintings at Covent Garden, London Gallery in another solo show. He was also commissioned to paint a large fret cut out mural for a waiting area at Southampton Hospital. A number of smaller shows and commissions followed.
