Pete Humphreys

Pete Humphreys: Cinematic Portraiture with a Painterly Touch

Pete Humphreys blends cinematic atmosphere with impressionistic technique to create iconic, emotive portraiture. Drawing inspiration from the way film directors frame scenes to build intensity, Pete captures moments that feel both dynamic and authentic. Influenced by the Impressionists, his loose, vigorous brushstrokes form images that appear strikingly realistic from a distance but dissolve into expressive marks up close.

Pete’s artistic process is guided by his subjects, drawing from the mood and vibe of the person or scene. His style varies depending on the influence—a gritty Tarantino film might inspire bold, rapid strokes, while a polished Marvel scene may evoke a more refined approach. This versatility allows him to capture subtle glances and hidden emotions while maintaining a sense of honesty and accuracy.

His work has earned notable recognition, including reaching the BP Portrait Competition final selection in 2016 and winning the Portrait Section of the St Helens Open Art Competition twice. His portraits have garnered praise from celebrities like Lena Headey and Russell Crowe, who shared and promoted his work on social media, describing his talent as "mad skills."

By combining cinematic storytelling with painterly realism, Pete continues to push the boundaries of contemporary portraiture, capturing both the essence and the moment of his subjects.