The temperatures are beginning to rise, the sun block is coming out, the BBQ’s are being lit – it can only be the great British summer! Many of us have fond memories of time spent blissfully by the sea, or walking through the foothills of the Lake District. Maybe it was a beautiful break in the warmth of some far-off land.
Many an artist has made it their passion to capture the essence of this glorious period. To celebrate the season, Gallery Rouge will be showcasing work by some of the countries leading talent at their ‘Scenes of Summer’ exhibition. The event will unveil an inspirational range of Original Paintings and collectable Limited Editions by award-winning artists from all over the world.
Rebecca Lardner 'True Blue I'
Headlining the event will be the work of hugely popular artist Rebecca Lardner. Recently voted ‘Best up and Coming Artist’ at the Fine Art Guild awards, her paintings wonderfully portray scenes of the British South Western coast. Rebecca’s distinctive oils on canvas are beautifully depicted portrayals of life on the land and the sea. The large ensemble cast of figures, boats and sea birds creates an impression of ceaseless activity, and this is heightened by the natural curves of the classic English harbour which provide movement and energy. Her palette is based strongly on the colours of the sea, with blues, greens and greys dominating the entire canvas.
It is all too easy to be charmed by the quirky yet stylish harbour scenes. But to look closely at these images is to glimpse a world of beam trawlers, long liners and crabbers; a thriving community, overlooked by painted or stone faced granite cottages. Ancient medieval walls divide the shore from the sea, and highlight the natural curves of the classic English harbour. The unspoken contrast between the constant activity of the harbour and the watchful serenity of the fishermen’s cottages is in her own words, “a composition waiting to be realised”.
Other artists showcasing their talent include Peter Wileman – President of the Royal Institute of Oil Painters. Peter’s powerful Oil Paintings have established his international reputation as one of the finest artists of his generation. His dramatic land and seacapes are characterised by a highly expressive, painterly technique and display a structural clarity and atmospheric impact that few contemporary artists can hope to rival. His artistic achievements have been recognised with various accolades including the Frank Herring award at the Mall Galleries in London and the Cornellisen Prize for Outstanding Work.
Providing an international flavour will be paintings from Canadian artist Danielle O’Connor Akiyama. Painting in a variety of media, Danielle creates luminous floral images that vibrate with life, energy and colour, whether through a riotous party of flowers or a single magnificent blossom. She has received numerous awards for her paintings which she describes as “sanctuaries for the soul.”
The ‘Scenes of Summer’ exhibition will be held at Gallery Rouge throughout mid September, with a special champagne evening hosted on the evening of September 11th.
