Following on from West Buckland, Ed studied Fine Art at Lincoln University, graduating with First Class honours. His practice has evolved around a close interaction with his environment, primarily through walks along traditional paths which he then records in a number of ways, including sketches, photographs and mark making. 

These records are then incorporated into his studio practice to form larger scale oil paintings, sculptures and works in pen and ink drawings.  Previous projects have included the Viking Way in Lincolnshire, the Two Moors and Braunton Burrows in Devon, and a road trip across the USA from east to west.  

Currently based in North Devon, since February, Ed has been working as artist-in-residence at St. Anne's Chapel in Barnstaple, making work that focuses on the transitional light and space from inside the building. Each month he has been making sketches of the different rooms inside the Chapel, the interior of which is being restored and developed into a cultural centre for the community of Barnstaple by Barnstaple Town Council.

This curious building, dating mainly from the early 14th century, half hidden from view among high buildings and shops, is the sole survivor of the chapels and the chantries that existed before the Reformation. It was used as a grammar school at one time, and can count John Gay (the composer of the Beggar’s Opera – upon which Brecht and Weil’s Threepenny Opera is based) among its alumni. Ed also recently took part in Art Trek’s Open Studios 2011.

To see more photos of this and to catch up on Ed’s latest blog about the St Anne’s project, along with pictures and information about all Ed’s work go to:  www.edwardcrumpton.com . Ed's latest newsletter can be viewed here Ed can also be followed on Twitter @edwardcrumpton * UPDATE * : The Pilton Art Group have invited Ed to teach a 5 week drawing course based on St. Anne’s Chapel,  which will be starting on September 19th. More info on his website her