Ivory frame with gilt trim
Pathfinders from RAF Upwood 156 Squadron, 2007
Exhibitions
1996 The Guild of Aviation Artists. The Carisbrooke Gallery. London1997 The Royal Institute of Oil Painters. The Mall Galleries, London
1998 The Guild of Aviation Artists. The Carisbrooke Gallery. London
1999 The Guild of Aviation Artists. The Carisbrooke Gallery. London
1999 to 2015 The Annual Guild of Aviation Paintings of the Year
Literature
Rod's love for WWII aircraft was sparked during his time serving in the Royal Air Force. Living in Oxford, he was in proximity to RAF Brize Norton, and after relocating to Cambridge, he found himself close to RAF Fairford. His passion for aviation led him to become a regular visitor to both bases, attending countless airshows to marvel at the planes. Over time, he formed relationships with some of the base personnel and was even fortunate enough to meet a few WWII pilots. It's clear that his fascination with these incredible machines has only grown stronger with time.
During World War II, the Pathfinders were a specialized group of bomber crews who marked targets for the main bomber force. The Pathfinders from RAF Upwood 156 Squadron were a highly skilled group of pilots and navigators who flew ahead of the main force to drop flares and markers on the target area, increasing the accuracy of bombing runs. They faced heavy danger from anti-aircraft fire and enemy fighters, but their contributions were crucial in shortening the war and saving lives.
As with all of his work, each painting is created with a blend of his own reference material and a strong imagination.