Art Auction - Arms Around the Child, Timed

Born in the fishing village of Emsworth, Hampshire in 1969, Paul's interest and fascination in the ocean and natural history, taxidermy and curiosities grew from an early age. 

Trained as a cabinet-maker, Paul began a carving and gilding apprenticeship with David Goodman, the fine art framer and paintings conservator. He has framed art works by David Hockney, Paul Nash, Renoir, Dali, Kandinsky, to name but a few. Working as a freelance conservator, Paul meticulously restored and conserved many historical and important pieces from numerous National Trust and English Heritage properties, including Osterley Park, Uppark House and Buckingham Palace. 

In 2001 Paul moved to South West France where he spent several years sourcing unusual antique decorative objects at markets and brocantes for his assemblage work, selling to dealers and collectors in England. As an avid collector himself, his attention to detail, expertise in traditional gilding, framing techniques and taxidermy skills combine to create his ethereal and magical assemblage boxes. The taxidermy used in Paul’s work are mostly vintage pieces. Any new pieces are legally obtained. Returning from France in 2007 Paul lives and works in North Devon near the sea, surfing and fishing.