Christopher Pratt's works of art do not just happen. There is a complex process behind each work, both technically and creatively. The next few pages will look at these processes and will show how he goes about making a particular piece. Along the way, we'll look at some specific examples to further clarify the process.

Pratt must have some idea of what he wants to draw before it happens. The first step that must be taken is the the clarification of that idea. These ideas almost always come from Pratt's own memories of the places, people and experiences of his life. The ideas he gets for pieces of art are often a long time forming and may not be selected for a work for quite a while. When there is a sudden spark of inspiration for a piece, it is usually an event in his immediate present that provides a conection with something from the past. Even his figure work, the only works he does directly from the subject, is often based on memory, with the model filling in for another figure, real or imaginary. The setting of these works also comes from Pratt's memory.

After the original idea has formed, it may change and take on a different form befor it actully becomes one of Pratt's works. Artist's sometimes say an idea takes time to "grow". For example, while driving on a particular road, the bright light of the planet Venus over the distant horizon may trigger memories of other roads he has driven throughout his life. In this particular instance, the sight of the planet made him think "I'm driving to Venus." While he might recognise the absurdity of the idea of physically leaving the highway and driving to a distant planet, a concept has been formed, and the result is three paintings with variations on the title A Long and Winding Road which were produced in 2000 and 2001.

To bridge the gap between sometimes distant memories and a finished artwork, Pratt goes through the process of making a number of studies. Take some time to have a look at what the study process is, how it works and why it is used. After that, we will look at the different media that he works in and how this is accomplished.