Newquay Artist’s Work Used for Hawkwind Album Cover

A Newquay-based artist has seen one of her paintings take on an unexpected new chapter after it was chosen as the cover artwork for a new album by Hawkwind.

Diane Griffiths, a contemporary artist known for her atmospheric night scenes, created The Train of Lights inspired by the Dartmouth Train of Lights. The piece captures the glow of illuminated carriages reflected across the River Dart.

From Christmas Sale to Album Artwork

The painting was originally sold in the lead-up to Christmas, but the story did not end there.

It later emerged that the buyer’s husband had previously commented on a social media post featuring the artwork, asking if it was for sale, unaware it had already been purchased for him as a surprise.

The buyer was the wife of musician Dave Brock of Hawkwind. Earlier this year, the band contacted Diane to request permission to use the painting as the cover artwork for their latest release, Psychedelic Selection, which is due out in June via Cherry Red Records.

“A Life of Its Own”

Diane Griffiths said: “It’s always special to see where a painting ends up, but this one has taken on a life of its own. It’s been wonderful to see it continue its journey beyond the canvas.”

Cornwall Festival Appearance

Hawkwind are scheduled to perform across the UK in 2026, including a headline appearance at the Morvala Festival in Cornwall. Diane has also been invited to attend.

Artist Focused on Light and Landscape

Diane’s work explores how natural and man-made light transforms everyday landscapes at night, focusing on moments that are often overlooked but widely shared.

She has received several accolades, including:

• St Luke’s Guiding Lights Artist 2026, a large-scale public art trail and auction in Plymouth this summer
• Winner of the People’s Choice Award 2025, Artist of the Year, Supporting All Artists
• Winner of the People’s Choice Award 2024, The British Art Prize, Artists & Illustrators Magazine

More of Diane’s work, including original pieces and prints, can be found on her website.