Born in 1956, Tim Ashkar has become recognised not only for his fine art, but for his film and television scenery. It is increasingly common for contemporary artists to reach a wider audience by bringing their skills to the big and small screens – but despite this, Ashkar has become more renowned for his canvases.

His work is easily recognisable. Ashkar is well-known for his depictions of black culture. Indeed, a painting such as ‘Rodeo Procession’, which depicts a scene from the black rodeo, is a clear reminder of our diverse, multi-cultural world. Similarly, in his beautiful work, ‘Praying Hands’, Ashkar presents an illustration of black hands, held in prayer. And yet, we are told, the painting was inspired by the work of the 15th Century German artist, Albrecht Dürer, so interlinking two cultures in a moment of harmony.

Ashkar has said that this painting, entitled ‘Visiting Grandpa’, depicts a 'timeless' scene. What we have here is a portrayal of family, happiness and, above all, love. The bond between grandparent and grandchild is a unique one, and one that exists in all cultures.

And while Tim Ashkar continues to paint, we will continue to understand that the colours of this world are bound together by such timeless themes.