So this is exciting!
About 2 years ago, I stopped selling my art. There was no big decision; no dramatic turning point. I just found myself lacking the time (and probably the motivation) to do all the things it takes to get artwork onto a website and out into the marketplace.
So I made things and then just put them away. Lots of abstract paintings, collages and mixed media works on paper - all stored away rather than shown.
But a few months ago, I was presented with an opportunity that I've decided to take. I was approached by a local gallery owner who was interested in showing my work. In the past, I've not been particularly interested in working with galleries but I like Lorraine and I love her space.
Scar Gallery is a small but perfectly formed building in a beautiful Cumbrian village called Ravenstonedale. It has beautiful old walls and an amazing winding stone staircase. Lorraine has created a welcoming space and even serves coffee and homemade cake among the artwork.
I plan to show some abstract landscapes alongside many fully abstract pieces. I'm currently sorting through what I have, and yesterday I met with my framer to discuss options. I will also include some sale pieces, which will be unframed studies and sketches available at a discount.
The framed paintings will also be for sale on my website (via the gallery), which means I need to start taking photographs before I sign and varnish each piece. In some cases I even have to come up with titles!
It's funny how things have their time. Two years ago I would have had no interest in this - selling just wasn't on my mind. But now, I feel excited to see these paintings on display. I'm proud of them and I know they're going to look great hung together.
We are having a private view evening on July 3rd and then the show runs until August 23rd, so if you're looking for somewhere for a summer break, why not come to beautiful Cumbria? If you can make the private view, we could even meet and have a chat :)
So this is my official invitation to join me on July 3rd between 6pm and 8pm, and my even more firm invitation to explore this beautiful part of the world.
This is a link to the gallery's website and here is their Instagram.
And here is a little more information about this gorgeous area.
Maybe I'll see you there. But if you can't attend in person, stay tuned for an email on July 4th when I will share the paintings online in a special online private view. These may well be the last abstract paintings I show for quite some time, so mark the date in your diary :)