I refer to my colour work as paintings, and refer to my graphite works as sketches, although most people are surprised to discover that all my work, including those in colour are executed in pencil and pastel. It is a medium I find very adaptable and blendable, particularly with the high quality pencils and pastels.

My primary interest and inspiration for my artwork lies in maritime history. I am motivated in the main by historical facts, stories and records of real events throughout history.

Although my subjects are always ships or boats of some description, sometimes the focus or the real subject of the painting is the sea. I often try to show not only the vessel, but how it is affected by the wind and sea conditions.

Some of my previous subjects have been a variety of naval vessels, from WWII submarines and PT boats to 18th century frigates and ships of the line. I have also painted a number of 18th and 19th century merchant vessels.

Of the works which to be shown at my exhibition at Falmouth Arts Centre in June 2006 include two of ancient vessels, one Mycenaean trading galley and one Roman warship.

As I have rebuilt and sailed three dipping luggers of my own, it is not surprising that lugsail-rigged craft and other traditional working boats are another subject matter that I often paint. I find all types of traditional working boats, particularly British, American and French a constant inspiration for my work. I have also painted modern yachts and fishing boats.

Many people ask if I paint “tall ships” – I have a slight aversion to this term, as it one that was invented in the 20th century, during the time when the revival of traditionally rigged ships was growing. These vessels which have been grouped together to be called Tall Ships, would have been known to those who sailed them as square-riggers, or by the specific type, fully rigged ships, barques, brigs, schooners and the like.

I hope you enjoy browsing my website.

Read what his wife thinks: Ray Rowe, an introduction by Ann Rowe