Living the Dream
I had an exciting day out in July, attending an audition for a new BBC Painting series. I think it’s going to be similar to the recent Big Painting Challenge, but will (probably) be called ‘School of Art’. Before you ask, I didn’t get on the show – they had inevitably had 1000’s of applicants, so I was very pleased to make an audition, and they auditioned at least 200 people for just 10 places. We had an exercise to paint and draw the same Still Life in just 2 hours, and then an interview, both of which were filmed. As with most BBC shows, the emphasis was on personality and “story”. The first question from the interviewer to me was – “So, you’re Living the Dream then?” I suppose that’s true, but most of the time as I’m busy making pictures, doesn’t feel much like it! Anyway, still looking forward to seeing the show, which should air in the New Year.
Kendal Abbot Hall Gallery – Winifred Nicholson in Cumbria
As you read this I’ll be in Edinburgh, soaking up the festival, but we will just have come from the Lake District, where I saw this lovely show in a delightful gallery. Winifred Nicholson was the first wife of Ben Nicholson, and was clearly heavily influenced by his work in St. Ives. But she was originally from Cumbria, and returned here when they split. Her work is primarily about colour, and this little show plots her whole career, highlighting her specifically Cumbrian work. If you don’t know of her I do urge you to check it out when you get a chance, understated but often sublime.
Smaller Formats
I’ve been working recently on a smaller format, based on a 40 x 40 cm square. My plan is to do a large series of these works, I’ve finished 4 so far and have another 3 underway, but would like to have at least 12 eventually. They have currently all been London galleries, often with figures in the foreground. I’m trying to get as many ready as possible ahead of my Autumn exhibitions.
Art Calendar
Shows and Fairs
Hertford Theatre Summer Exhibition, Until Sat 13th August (a group show of 8 artists associated with Courtyard Arts). Thanks to those who enjoyed the Preview evening.
Upcoming Exhibitions
Herts Open Studios, Preview Evenings Wed/Thu 14th/15th September 6-9pm, then weekends 17th/18th and 24th/25th, 12-5pm. There are many other artists showing in homes and studios throughout September across Hertfordshire, do please check out the website.
Sunbury Millenium Embroidery Gallery, Solo Exhibition “The texture of Landscape”, Tue 11th October – Sunday 6th November (10-4pm). There is a Private View on Thursday 13th October, 6.30pm. Do let me know if you’d like to attend this.
I am also running a workshop on Saturday 15th October at the gallery, book through the website.
Dave