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 The Machin Arts Foundation was founded in 2003 by Francis Machin to celebrate the life and work of his parents, Arnold and Patricia Machin, to promote figurative art and support emerging artists.
Figurative art is used to define art, most often painting and sculpture, that is representational and draws inspiration from the real world. The term is often applied retrospectively, but applies equally to much contemporary art. This website contains many examples of painting, illustration and sculpture. The forms you will see may be a direct representation of what the artist sees, but in many cases are highly idealised. Scenes from Mythology and fantasy are as much a part of figurative art as the conventional. The Foundation also provides residencies for talented emerging figurative artists, and the site features work from artists we have supported over the p ast 18 months. We hope you find your visit enjoyable, stimulating and provocative. The Foundation is a registered charity and relies on donations and revenue from merchandise to operate. We have a wide range of gifts and cards available to purchase from our online shop. |
From humble beginnings as a potteries apprentice Arnold Machin rose to become an acclaimed sculptor creating the bas-relief portrait of Her Majesty the Queen used on Royal Mail stamps. 
Architect, sculptor and painter, Francis Machin also drew with an Ardizzone touch. He sketched out bird’s-eye views of buildings and gardens as he talked at dazzling speed. His artistic eye showed too in his many photographs, stemming from acute powers of observation.