The Swedish show looks amazing and we were really hoping for a good turnout on Sunday. Sunshine, happy people and a great exhibition meant we all had a party. Torbjorn and Eva stayed over for a few days and it has been great rediscovering local attractions. We drove over to Sherwood Forest and the Major Oak at the end of a busy day. We weren’t disappointed in the old oaks that have been around for 800yrs. I bought a booklet on Southwell Minster as my knowledge is sketchy and it is always a good place to take visitors,
I’ve just left David, Sarah and the Gotland artists mid flow – installing the show opening this Sunday. The Exhibition Space has seen a variety of hangs but this one is v different. 30 artists, members of the Gocart Gallery have made work inspired by the sea. An island of work suspnded at various heights from the ceiling, hover and float above eye level. Only a few pieces were installed, inlcuding a pair of buckets welded together and covered in teats alongside a beautifully crafted black leather fish. Can’t wait to see th rest!
Blimey, the crate from Gotland arrived today. I wasn’t around to receive it but it has been carefully unpacked and dismantled. 30 artists are showing work and apparently the contents are v interesting. www,harringtonmllstudios.co.uk
We tested the Old Theatre Deli tapas last night for the’Drink and Draw’ event to be held in September by Southwell Artists. The food was delicious and the service excellent. We needed somewhere to seat 100 people so the Deli ticks all the boxes. The event will take place in September and we hope to sell tickets at about £10 – £12/head to include one tapas and a glass of wine. The idea is to move round the table and draw our neighbours. I missed the previous D & D as it took place before I joined the group. By all accounts everyone had a great time.
CRazy week. 3 pvs and 2 birthdays has meant 5 evenings out. The first pv was last Saturday to see Sheila Ravnkilde’s work in a 2-person show at the Tarpey. 48 boxes in an array of colours/surfaces are arranged in a grid… this piece hums and the colours sing. Whilst I have seen the work in the context of the studio, this piece is site specific. The scale perfectly suits the intimate gallery space. There are subtle surprises including shadows cast by the boxes. The place was packed so I’m going back for another look. The other pvs were both degree shows in Nottingham. Nottingham University runs a part time degree course and this years Fine Art show is at the Djanogly Gallery. Briefly … Paula Mcann’s pin drawing and her cascading wall piece are highlights. Though generally I think the work is mature, well considered and thoughtful. Good show. One obesrvation though – it is quite monochromatic. The final show at Notts Trent on the other hand is youthful, edgy and on the verge… Alex Pain’s sculpture’s are beautifully executed – taming his materials in an unexpected and seductive way. Painting or rather the material qualities of paint are deconstructed by several students. Manipulating, sculpting, animating, dripping and dropping – this traditional medium is being abused in a healthy manner. I only managed a breif snapshot of the show because I was late-ish and met a lot of friends at the event. But I thoroughly enjoyed the energy, variety and intelligent offerings. I have to say I am slightly disappointed at the lack of painting. Maybe there will be a serious rebellion and watercolours will make a comeback ;)
