Inspired by the landscapes of Glastonbury and the wider Somerset countryside, Jack’s creative practice is rooted in careful observation, sketchbook exploration, and a deep appreciation for both nature and history. In this Q&A, Jack shares their artistic influences, favourite materials, and how nature and heritage continue to shape their creative journey.
Unless otherwise stated, all images and artwork in this blog are copyright © Jack Kingston, also known as @LordHighKingston. All rights reserved.
Meet the Artist: Jack Kingston (Glastonbury)
What inspires your artwork?
I adore nature imagery and draw a huge amount of inspiration from the world around me. Whether I’m walking around Glastonbury or discovering hidden landscapes across Somerset, I’m always observing. I love looking at the shapes and textures found in nature and noticing how light dapples through leaves and plants. The way shadows create entirely new dimensions and patterns fascinates me.
Being immersed in a natural setting is incredibly important to me. Listening to the interactions between plants, wildlife, and the environment creates a sense of connection. In many ways, I feel part of that interaction too. It quietens the mind and helps me see how the patterns and forms found in nature are reflected within ourselves, often finding their way into a simple sketchbook drawing.
How does spending time outdoors influence your creative process?
Drawing in nature is a very grounding experience for me. I often head out with a pocket-sized sketchbook, a handful of snacks, and a selection of my favourite drawing materials.
There’s something special about sitting quietly in a landscape and responding directly to what’s in front of you. It allows me to slow down, observe more carefully, and really connect with my surroundings.
What materials do you enjoy working with most?
For quick sketches, my favourite tool is a Uni Pen brush fineliner in a sepia tone. It allows me to capture everything from bold shadows to the smallest details with ease. I often pair it with a wash of acrylic ink applied using a portable water brush, which helps certain elements stand out.
For longer drawing sessions, I love using my portable Winsor & Newton watercolour set. It’s covered in years of paint marks and memories, and has become a little piece of my artistic history that travels with me wherever I go.
Tell us about your role at Glastonbury Abbey.
I’ve worked in Visitor Services at Glastonbury Abbey for the past year. My role is quite simple, but it’s incredibly rewarding because it puts me face-to-face with visitors from all over the world.
Every day brings new conversations and different perspectives. People visit for many reasons—spiritual journeys, pilgrimages, archaeological interests, a fascination with the legends of Avalon and King Arthur, family holidays, or even just a pleasant dog walk. It’s wonderful to be part of those experiences and conversations in a place where I grew up. Glastonbury Abbey is truly special to so many people.
Has working at the Abbey influenced your artwork?
Absolutely. Being surrounded by the ruins every day provides endless inspiration, particularly from medieval art and design.
I’m especially drawn to marginalia, stained glass, and historic floor tiles. When you think about medieval life, it was often a difficult and uncertain time, yet an abbey would have been an awe-inspiring place filled with colour, craftsmanship, symbolism, and wonder.
I love exploring how that sense of mythology, storytelling, and visual richness can be brought into contemporary artwork. Finding ways to blend medieval influences with modern creativity is something that continues to inspire my practice.
What do you hope people take away from your work?
I hope my work encourages people to slow down and look more closely at the world around them. Whether it’s the play of light through leaves, the textures of a landscape, or the stories hidden within historic places, there is so much beauty and inspiration waiting to be noticed.
If my artwork helps someone feel a little more connected to nature, history, or their own sense of curiosity, then I’ve achieved what I set out to do.
Thankyou Jack for taking the time to answer Forager’s questions! Go give them a follow over on Instagram: @LordHighKingston
