Colin Davidson: Twelve Paintings Conversations with Mark Carruthers

Twelve Paintings is an intimate and compelling exploration of the life and work of renowned artist Colin Davidson. Structured around a series of deeply personal conversations with broadcaster Mark Carruthers, the book uses twelve key works - from early Belfast street scenes to iconic portraits of figures like Queen Elizabeth II, Seamus Heaney, and Edna O’ Brien - as gateways into broader reflections on art, memory and place. Combining memoir and artistic manifesto, Twelve Paintings delves into Davidson’ s creative process and the powerful human stories behind his work. Rooted in a long-standing friendship, the conversations accompanying the paintings offer a rare glimpse into the artist’ s evolving practice. Through these wide-ranging dialogues, Davidson reveals not only the technical and emotional depth behind his work but also his personal convictions - about creativity, identity, and the role of the artist in bearing witness. With warmth and candour, he invites readers into the world behind the canvas, bridging the gap between private reflection and public expression.

Simon Callow is one of the UK's most esteemed actors. A star of stage and screen, he has received numerous accolades including an Olivier Award and Screen Actors Guild Award as well as nominations for two BAFTA Awards. Colin Davidson is a contemporary artist, living and working near Belfast, Northern Ireland. Since 2010 his focus has been on painting grand scale portraits, which have won widespread recognition and many international awards. As well as numerous commissions, Davidson’ s portrait sitters have included Brad Pitt, Ed Sheeran, Liam Neeson, Brian Friel, Sir Kenneth Branagh, Christy Moore and Seamus Heaney. His work is held in many public and corporate collections worldwide. Colin was installed as the 6th Chancellor of Ulster University in a ceremony at St Anne’ s Cathedral Belfast in 2022. Mark Carruthers is a broadcaster with BBC Northern Ireland, presenting Sunday Politics, The View, and Stormont Today. He joined the BBC in 1989 and has since become a leading voice in political journalism. Mark is also a strong advocate for the arts, chairing the Lyric Theatre board. He was awarded an OBE in 2011 for services to drama in Northern Ireland.