ESSEX artist Marcus Krackowizer never planned to be a painter.

But then he never planned for the accident 20 years ago which left him in a wheelchair. As fate would have it, breaking his neck after diving into a river has kind of led to the development of his unique, beautiful style of modern impressionism which, in turn, has enabled him to take up painting full-time.

Marcus’s accident happened while he was at Felsted School. He says: “I had finished my A levels and we celebrated. I dived into the river, hit a passing log and broke my neck.’’ On his technique, Marcus, who grew up in Writtle, near Chelmsford, says: “I prefer palette knives to brushes because of the ability to create more vibrant textures.

“Following my accident, there have been dexterity problems. I found fine movements quite difficult. It took a few years to get the technique right.”

It is resulting in oil canvases which are a striking mix of dreamy light and warm colours. “I never planned to be an artist,” he admits. “I was an aeronautical engineer in the US and thought it would be nice to paint a picture in each city I visited.” Six years ago, he decided to do it full-time.

The Dimension of Stillness, paintings and prints by Marcus Krackowizer, Jardine Bistro, High Street, Wivenhoe.

Until June 30. Free.

01206 820390