Al Heighton – Eight Letters On Ice – Original Signed Limited Edition Screenprint – 14/50

Artist: Al Heighton
Title: Eight Letters On Ice
Sheet Size: 51.2 × 76.8 cm
Medium: Original Screenprint
Edition: Limited Edition of 50
Edition Number: 14/50
Condition: Fine
Signature: Signed and numbered in pencil by the artist
Subject: Contemporary British Art, Winter Landscapes, Ice Skating, Romantic Illustration, Pop Art, Surrealism, Humorous Art
Gallery: Hornseys Gallery, Ripon, North Yorkshire

Description

Eight Letters On Ice is a beautifully composed original limited edition screenprint by the British artist and illustrator Al Heighton, whose distinctive work combines imaginative storytelling, bold graphic design, playful characterisation and an affectionate appreciation of everyday life and the natural world. The composition depicts two figures ice skating across a frozen pond in a peaceful winter landscape, surrounded by bare trees, delicate snowflakes and the understated details of a rural setting.

Rendered in a carefully balanced palette of soft blue-grey, black, white, yellow, orange and deep red, the image captures the quiet beauty of winter while retaining the warmth, humour and individuality characteristic of Heighton’s illustrations.

Ice Skating, Romance and the British Winter

Ice skating has long occupied a distinctive place in British winter imagery.

From historical depictions of skating on frozen rivers and ponds to nostalgic illustrations of village life, the activity has often been associated with companionship, recreation and the fleeting pleasures of a cold winter. In Eight Letters On Ice, Heighton draws upon this tradition while approaching the subject through the language of contemporary graphic illustration.

Rather than attempting a naturalistic depiction of a particular location, he creates an imagined landscape assembled from familiar elements of the British countryside. The frozen pond, bare trees, distant church and gently falling snow establish a recognisable winter setting. The two skaters introduce warmth and movement, their brightly coloured clothing standing out against the restrained tones of the landscape. The suggestion of romance is conveyed through gesture rather than elaborate detail. Their extended arms and shared movement across the ice create a sense of connection, while the surrounding landscape provides a peaceful setting for their encounter.

The title adds another layer of meaning, encouraging the viewer to consider the relationship between the figures and the possibility of an unspoken message. This combination of familiar subject matter, understated humour and imaginative storytelling is central to Heighton’s artistic appeal.

Condition

In fine condition. Signed and numbered 14/50 in pencil by the artist.

Please examine the accompanying photograph, which shows the actual print offered for sale.

Why Buy from Hornseys?

Established in 1976, Hornseys is an independent specialist gallery and bookseller based in the historic cathedral city of Ripon, North Yorkshire. For fifty years, we have specialised in carefully selected original artwork, limited edition prints, illustrated books and collectible works by established and distinctive artists.

Our association with Al Heighton includes hosting a solo exhibition of his work, and we are pleased to continue offering his original screenprints to collectors throughout the United Kingdom and internationally. Every artwork is individually examined and described, with particular attention paid to its medium, signature, edition details and condition. Our photographs show the actual artwork offered for sale, allowing customers to examine its appearance before purchasing.

We offer free tracked and insured UK delivery, with artworks carefully packaged to ensure their safe arrival. International delivery is also available.

All purchases are covered by ou 14-day unconditional returns policy, provided items are returned in the condition in which they were supplied.