No art form challenges the hand, eye and mind, as does the art of fine writing or "calligraphy". It is from this context that each of my pieces is concerned with line, form, colour and texture - all the elements of a good painting.

 I am fascinated by the many combinations and patterns which can be worked out against a positive background. The elements of my designs are based on the resolution of positive and negative shapes, which are often further enhanced by the use of the traditional colours and metals of the medieval illuminator. Painting in a free-flowing non-representational style, I explore the use of background texture that contrasts with controlled shapes. Sometimes the fluid and linear qualities of calligraphy complement the unique experimental work.

Des Bevis studied at the West of England College of Art, Bristol, England, specialising in calligraphy and illumination. Following his Fine Arts Studies he earned teaching qualifications from Bristol University. During teaching and educational consulting in England and Canada, and an administrative career at the University of Manitoba, he continued to practise his art and completed numerous calligraphic commissions for clients in England, USA and Canada. A medievalist at heart, he has a special interest in heraldry and 12th century illumination.

Upon moving to Vancouver Island, Des commenced non-representational painting in acrylics and mixed media, which extended and complemented his work in calligraphic design. His paintings are found in private collections in Canada, USA and Australia, and currently is represented by galleries in Vancouver, Victoria and Nanaimo.