39 Words: Geraint Davies
Dear Jim. Please can you paint me Jim Bowen and Bully making a break for it in the Bullseye speedboat... perhaps in a Thelma and Louise-style leap to freedom? - Matthew Mella centre rampage’ and just adding more and more explosions and carnage while laughing like some kind of panto villain.
Very few people in real life that I come across have heard of it, which usually leads to some pretty awkward explanations.
You must be constantly impressed by the imagination shown by your fans. It is amazing, really. I must be in possession of the single greatest library of bizarre ideas in existence. It’s quite a responsibility in some ways. I hope one day some budding MS Painters will start taking on some of the brilliant ones I’ve missed.
It’s interesting to watch how much your work has improved since your early pieces, though you would probably have been just as successful if you hadn’t actually improved as an artist. As I said, I’ve never been intentionally raw or loose besides using a clunky, outdated piece of software. The challenge has always been to make it look as good as possible and I’ve just been refining my technique every time. I couldn’t go back to the old style now even though in some ways I wish I could. I’d certainly get a lot more done.
Both Bob Mortimer and Graham Linehan have come out as fans of yours. As someone who’s clearly into surreal comic imagery, it can’t get much better than that? I was really buzzing about that. I’m a big fan of both, obviously. I had a lot of fun paying homage to Father Ted with the Exorcist picture knowing there was a good chance Graham Linehan would see it. Is the fact that people like that are paying attention to what you do still difficult to take in? You seem like a really down-to-earth guy, but you’re massive. I don’t feel like I am. Because it’s on the internet there’s this sense of detachment.
Are you a fan of other artists who dip into comedy? David Shrigley, for example? Funny you should mention David Shrigley as I’ve been a fan of his for ages. I’ve ruined two of his books by leaving them in my bathroom for five years. But I’m struggling to think of more legitimate artists who dip into comedy that I like. I guess I’m generally more into comedians who dip into art. Harry Hill’s Tim the Tiny Horse
books are fantastic. I’m also a big fan of The Perry Bible Fellowship. I think what I do falls somewhere between art and comedy. I’m not really comfortable with it being categorised as either. Maybe it’s just the world’s most pointless public service. Finally – sorry – who would win in a fight between you and Chris (Simpsons artist)? I love Chris. Why would we be fighting? If he wanted to fight me I’d try and talk him out of it, but I can’t see it really. He’s far too wise in his ways.
Jim’ll Paint It is exhibiting at The Golden Lion, Bristol until 15 February. Send your suggestions for next month’s middle-page poster to crack@crackmagazine.net