Okehampton artist draws inspiration from Dartmoor's wild beauty

A new art space, Olly Oliver Studio, has opened in Okehampton, offering a unique insight into the natural world through the eyes of local artist Andrew Oliver, known as Olly. 

The studio and gallery, which opened in August 2024, is located just a stone’s throw from the Victorian arcade and is the creative hub for Olly, who has lived in the South West for over a decade.

Olly’s work is deeply influenced by Dartmoor, where he regularly walks, exploring the moors in all weathers.

ABOVE: One of Olly's pieces. 'Last Light' by Olly Oliver.

“I’ve always been drawn to the outdoors and the wildness of Dartmoor,” he explains.

“It offers a space for contemplation and gives me the headspace I need to connect with nature. By drawing attention to the natural world I hope to encourage others to embrace a slower pace of life.”

Before opening his Okehampton studio, Olly worked from home. 

Now the studio has become a more efficient upgrade where he can take things to the next level. 

“Originaly I wanted to focus on a small locality after being used to national exhibitions. I wanted to show to people that art can survive in a town and to share something visual and meaningful,” he says.

“Art has the power to offer people hope, and I wanted to give the community a place to connect with creativity.”

At his studio, visitors can find Olly’s original artworks, as well as work in progress. 

He plans to ramp up his guided workshops in the new year, including lino printing and landscape painting, with two to four classes each month. 

His first workshop in the new space, held earlier this year, received great feedback, and he is eager to expand his offering.

Olly’s art focuses on Dartmoor’s untamed beauty.

“The landscape here is unlike anywhere else,” he says.

“I’m inspired by the textures, light, and forms that capture the essence of the moors. The open moorland, the tors, the rock formations; they all feed into my practice.”

Drawing on his background in mixed media and sustainable practices, Olly’s work celebrates the natural world.

He uses upcycled materials in his creations such as hand made canvases and primes plywood offcuts salvaged from other businesses. 

“I’ve always believed in limiting my impact, and my art is a way to promote sustainability and highlight the endangered species of British wildlife.”

While Olly’s focus is mainly 2D work, including printmaking and painting, he has previously created abstract furniture and sculptures. 

“My professional practice started out with mixed media 3D works in wood incorporating found objects, before becoming more focused on 2D artwork . But my interest on Dartmoor’s landscape and exploring the southwest has remained a constant throughout my career.”

Olly’s connection to Dartmoor goes beyond his artwork. He also values the natural elements in the landscape, particularly water.

“I enjoy wild swims and spending time near waterfalls water watching,” he shares. 

“It’s a meditative experience. Listening to the sound of clean, running water helps me feel grounded and refreshes my inpiration.”

As for his gallery’s role in the local community, Olly hopes his space will foster creativity and connection. 

“I believe art can create meaningful dialogue, and I want to offer a space for people to explore their own creativity,” he says.

“It’s also about celebrating the beauty and power of Dartmoor, which is so important to me.”

For Olly, being an artist is about more than just creating. 

“Art is a language in itself," he says. 

“It’s a way to communicate on an emotional level. The excitement I see in people when they connect with my work is incredibly rewarding.”

Through his gallery and studio, Olly Oliver continues to capture the essence of Dartmoor while giving back to the community, creating a space where nature, art, and creativity meet.

You can prebook or gift someone a workshop experience through moon and moor gallery or by contacting him at andrew.olly.oliver@gmail.com