Russell's work is eclectic in process and materials, working across many different media including painting, feltwork sculpture, paper, and ceramics.
He enjoys the freedom to create in an appropriate media depending on a particular idea, yet all linked by his profound love of nature and the natural world. Originally training in Graphic Design, Russell worked as an illustrator for over 20 years. Now a full-time artist, he works in Derbyshire from a small box room studio and a larger garage workspace.
On paintings: "The subjects of my paintings are mainly landscapes and still life. Landscapes begin through the activity of physically walking. Back in the studio I often work from memory; I am interested in the way memory can change the idea of a particular location and become a personal and unique portrayal. My still life paintings are often composed of favourite objects, pottery, old tins, natural found objects and other collected things. They usually feature flowers or plants in some form, echoing my interest as a keen gardener and plant lover. The different seasons are often also reflected in my still life compositions."
On ceramics: "I am particularly influenced by 19th century wooden Noah's ark animals - these were often carved in a naive, stylised way often due to the carvers having never encountered the animals they were trying to depict; this gives them a slightly odd, sometimes awkward but ultimately endearing quality that I hope in some way my ceramic pieces achieve."
On birds: "My bird sculptures are made using the technique of needle felting, a process of turning wool fibres into a solid three-dimensional form. With a nod towards taxidermy, I aim for my birds to have a lifelike appearance, combining dyed and natural rare breed wools with elements of recycled fabric to suggest plumage and markings. All my birds are made as close to life size as possible."