IN PARTNERSHIP WITH RANGE ROVER
John Redmond shares his favourite designers, makers, artists – and his idea of good taste …
Your favourite virtue In today’s world, it’s hard to know what’s real or fake, honesty is a virtue that I really admire, being sincere and authentic shouldn’t be underestimated
Your favourite qualities in a man Good manners cost nothing and really do make the man, not just in the big moments, but in the everyday small interactions.
Your favourite qualities in a woman It’s hard to just name one, strength, con? dence, kindness, independence, I could go on and on.
Your chief characteristic I have relentless drive, when I have something on my mind to do or create I kind of won’t stop until it’s achieved.
What you appreciate the most in your friends Loyalty, no judgement, friends that are there no matter what, who always have your best interests at heart.
The trait you most deplore in yourself Not recognising I have faults.
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A pastime you like outside work Travel, if I don’t have something booked I get itchy feet, we try to get away every couple of weeks, usually a city in Europe – Paris, Milan, Florence are favourites. We go where creative things and exhibitions by famous artists are happening. For downtime, we love Majorca.
Your idea of happiness When life is throwing no curved balls.
Your idea of misery I don’t know misery thankfully, when I see what’s going on in the world right now, I thank my lucky stars.
Your current state of mind Happy. Now that I am free to paint full time, my brain feels liberated so that gives me great contentment and the opportunity to work at my own pace. It’s always wonderful to show my work in group shows with other artists, but I am also thrilled to have a solo exhibition coming up.
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Most overrated virtue Silence, I do like to talk.
The talent which you would most like to possess I wish I could sing, I haven’t a note in my head, but I love music.
Your favourite designers and makers There are so many I admire in the world. On this small island, a few of my favourites are Niamh Barry, Róisín Lafferty, Louise Kennedy and Colin Burke.
Your greatest extravagance Fashion. I know I spend too much on clothes, especially quality, timeless pieces from minimalist contemporary designers like Issey Miyake and Comme des Garcons. But I only buy things I will wear forever. Your most treasured possession A Child of Prague my mother gave me that I hand painted in primary colours when I was eight or nine; and a toolbox that belonged to my dad.
Your favourite heroes in fiction Santa Claus.
Your favourite artist Joan Miró.
The principal aspect of your personality Consistently curious.
Your idea of good taste When you know you know, no need for a brand mention. I’m a minimalist at heart.
The country where I should like to live I’m very happy here on the Green Isle.
I look to the road ahead with … a real sense of optimism.
“John Redmond – Between the Lines” is at Gormleys Belfast from November 8-25.
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