Neil Blackwell

Neil Blackwell Biography

Neil Blackwell was born in London England, and came to Canada in 1958. As a young boy he won a scholarship to the Slade School of Art at London University. Thus began his career as an artist. Before leaving England Neil did his national service with the British Airborne.

His background trade was making pianos, however Neil always continued painting. He decided to make art his full time life’s work in 1975. A versatile artist, Neil is comfortable with a wide range of subject matter. In his earlier days, he painted in a renaissance style of the great masters, and was an accomplished portraitist. However his unique ability to capture wildlife in its natural habitat soon made him one of the most sought-after wildlife artists in North America.

Over the years Neil has won numerous awards among which he received first place in the choice award Canadian Wildlife Conservation Show. He was also named Duck’s Unlimited Canada’s prestigious Waterfowl Stamp and Print Artist of the year in 2000, 2004 and for the thrid time out of 987 top Canadian artists for 2010. Neil is also very well known for his work on the Heritage Murals that are found in Pembroke Township. Neil was the first artist to paint one of these now numerous murals and is honoured for his excellent workmanship.