Robin Bouttell

• Biography

  Attribute	Value
  Biography	Worked with Ray Campbell freelance illustrators/model makers during the 70's. Known, unimaginatively as Robin and Ray Partners. The 'London : how to go about it' job was commissioned through their agent Archer Art. The plasticine model not long after the Morgate tube train crash in the 70's. What originally was the front of the train, had to be made the rear with a guard so as not to look like the vehicles were about to collide. The image was used on publicity material for more than 17 years. Robin and Ray started their careers working for an illustration studio 'Head Office' in 1973. The studio was in the basement of the Royal Opera House Covent Garden (when the area was still a fruit and veg market). James Marsh and John Farman, their bosses had become well known for their plasticine models, especially a poster campaign for British airways, 'Earth Shrinkers'. Robin and Ray perfected the technique and formed Ray and Robin Partners. They made models for advertising and editorial for the next 5 years. The model for the London Transport commission was around 14 inches high made with white plasticine built mainly on a wire and cardboard structure. Miniature tools were made as 'over the counter' tools are about 4 times too large. They also developed texturing tools to imitate various materials. The model was then painted with gouache and with the vital ingredient, washing up liquid. Anything wet or glossy, eyes, lips, teeth, metal etc. is glossed with picture varnish. In order to get the very smooth surface the plasticine was worked with talc powder. These models are like wild west stage sets. Look slightly to the left or right and the structure is visible. They were made to be photographed so any unnecessary work was avoided. It also made them easier to handle. When the photographic shoot was over, they drove the model back to their North London studio. It sat on the back seat of the car but when Ray had to do an emergency stop, the dome of St. Paul flew from it's base and splatted on the windscreen. Transporting these models was a nightmare. People often tried to pick up the elements, unaware how soft and delicate they were. The original visual produced by the ad. Agency, showed the telecom tower, high rise offices etc. and was very crowded.
  Employment	Designed posters for London Transport, 1979
  Role	Artist,