Although Woody is best known as the drummer from the band, David Bowie and the Spiders from Mars, painting was actually Woody’s first love. At the age of 12 years old he was already working with oils and developing his skills. He was inspired by the works of early abstract artists such as Kandinsky, Klee, André Lhote, Severini and Cavalcanti. When Woody was a teen, he entered an art competition and won. The first prize was a scholarship to a famous art college in London.

Although he did not attend due to various circumstances, Woody continued honing his artistic skills. However, at the age of 14 years old he discovered music and this new interest and passion took over most of his free time and culminated in him joining David Bowie in London and becoming the drummer in the legendary band David Bowie and the Spiders from Mars.

Woody says “As well as being an incredible singer/songwriter, performer etc, Bowie had been to art college, so we had a common interest. We often discussed our likes and dislikes of various painters, lighting techniques, brush techniques and how to communicate through an art form. As well as observing Bowie first hand for several years, I consider these conversations invaluable in my development as a musician and a painter. It’s an education I would never have received at art college.”

Painting took a back seat for many years, as Woody worked on various musical projects. It wasn’t until 2020 when the pandemic occurred and Woody could no longer tour. An extensive time at home meant that Woody could immerse himself in painting and drawing once again and create his own collections.