Up The Garden Path

The month of June sees us tending to our gardens:

What will you fine up the garden path?

Join us for a summery evening to celebrate the wonders of the flora and fauna (and much more) that inhabit our gardens.

See you tomorrow!

Flying High!

Hello everyone

I've always said that artist Cathy Campbell is a star so I thought I'd share a nice story with you that I feel is a fitting tribute during the last week of her solo exhibition.
We have a lovely Japanese client who having spent the last few years living and working in Scotland is now returning home to the Empire of The Sun.
He has told us how much he enjoyed Scotland, and the people, and that he wanted to take something really special back to remember his time here.
Here is that special something:

'Star', oil on canvas by Cathy Campbell.

Cathy's painting will arrive in Japan in time for Hanami, the more than a thousand year old custom of celebrating the cherry trees. Hamani, literally meaning viewing flowers, is a major event in the Japanese calendar and people all over the country take time to celebrate and marvel at the wonderful blossoms. What a beautiful thing to do. To take time out with friends and family to respect and appreciate the gifts of nature. This speaks volumes about the Japanese people.

So it pleases me very much to know that such a beautiful painting will be admired and cherished by such an enlightened individual from the other side of the world.

Sayonara!

Confessions of a Gallerist

Hello everyone,

I have a confession to make.
I've never really been a great fan of still life painting.  There, I've said it.  But please don't shoot me down in flames just yet, or accuse me of being 'elitist'.  I'm simply being honest, and I'm not going to apologise for being proud of seeking out the best of the best for your perusal.

As an artist and gallery owner my palette and tastes spread pretty wide, but for some reason still life paintings have never seemed to cut the mustard for me.  Perhaps it goes back to boring art lessons at school, or maybe it's because there are an awful lot of 'questionable' examples out there that simply do nothing for me.  Either way, as a gallerist I knew this was the wrong attitude to take to an art form that has been around as long as the hills, and that it was my duty to find the right artist to change my opinion, and possibly that of others.

This issue came to a head with UG's 'Not So Still' exhibition in March 2010, which showcased the diverse and extraordinary talents of 5 painters whose work certainly went a long way to changing my mind.

Here I am hanging that exhibition, and judging from the look of concentration in my face the still lifes were already beginning to work their magic on me.  There was one artist in particular whose work really opened my eyes, and whose work gave me everything that I had previously thought was lacking in the humble still life - and so much more.

That artist was Cathy Campbell, whose gorgeous solo exhibition is currently blessing the walls of Union Gallery.  For me, Cathy Campbell's work, through years of observation and experience with paint and brush, makes the everyday seem etherial and sublime.  It is heartbreakingly good and perhaps offers us a metaphor for human life - these are all familiar objects that we can recognise and connect with.

'The Odd Couple', oil on board, by Cathy Campbell.
I know that it's not just me that responds to Cathy's work in this way: I've seen it time and time again during this exhibition.  It's not every day that paintings draw a gasp from those looking at them, yet Cathy's work is doing just that.  Her paintings strike a chord and stir emotions in all who see them.

I'm sure it's no coincidence that Cathy Campbell's work is often bought by individuals to mark an important occasion - newly weds, as a retiremnet gift and, on a couple of occasions, with money inherited through the passing of a loved one.  I get it completely: what could be a more fitting way to remember a special moment or person than to acquire an exquisite, medative painting to look at and really appreciate?

 
















'East Window', oil on board, by Cathy Campbell.

So I'm going to end by saying that Cathy's work is not in any way attempting to make grandiose statements or to be at all 'faddy'. Her work is simply a great, bloody good example of how to paint, and I salute her for this.

Come in and see for yourself.

Speak soon.

Don't Take Our Word For It......

An insightful review of Cathy Campbell's Solo Exhibition by our local independant stirrer:
http://bit.ly/xvczQA

Behind the Scenes

Hello everyone

I thought I would share with you some 'behind the scenes' action in the lead up to Glasgow based painter Cathy Campbell's stunning solo exhibition.

I'm hoping some of the photos will make you smile :)

Lets kick off here:

This is UG hound Tommy on the train beginning his day trip to Glasgow.
I think he enjoyed the journey, although I'm not so sure his fellow passengers appreciated the 'aromas' he shared with them.

In Cathy's studio where all the magic happens. There's a LOT of paint in there I can tell you.
But of course, Cathy is a real grafter. It's one of only a few studios I've been to where there are no
photographs. Everything Cathy ever paints is from a real object.

There's nothing like seeing the fruits of labour, especially like this...fresh off the press and humming of oil paint. A perk of the job!

Sadly I did not take a photo of the most excellent cake that Cathy's daughter had baked. Largely because I was too busy shoving it in my face.
I did however manage this little curiosity which I think sums up Cathy Campbell's great spirit and sense of humour:

I should explain that pretty those these objects are, none of Cathy's new paintings come with PMS.

Leaving you with this:

After a hard day of observation Tommy takes his specs of to catch up on some beauty sleep.

Speak soon.

Cathy Star

Hello everyone,

It was back in March 2010 that UG held its first exhibition of still life paintings.  Entitled 'Not So Still', it was a major success with one artist in particular recieving a great deal of attention.  That artist was Cathy Campbell, a Glasgow-based painter who we had found out about whilst putting together that exhibition.  We were surprised to learn that Cathy had never exhibited in Edinburgh before, and delighted that she agreed to exhibit with us.  I adore her beautiful, colourful work full of delicate touch and clever technique.  Not long after that exhibition, it was a logical step for us to talk to Cathy putting on her very first solo exhibition.

And the result of that conversation is now for all to see at UG.  Cathy Campbell's exhibition of new paintings opened last Thursday, and it has been well worth the wait of around 18 months to see this wonderful body of work  When you consider that she has produced all this work whilst holding down the day job as a tutor at Glasgow School of Art, it becomes even more impressive.

For example:

'Star', oil on canvas, by Cathy Campbell. And:

'Group of Three', oil on board, by Cathy Campbell.

 To Cathy, still life painting is not about making a portrait of the objects, or even about telling their story, it's about shapes, colour, darkness and light, and their relatioship to each other.  Over the last year, her methods have been changing somewhat.  She says:

"I have been less concerned with tone while engaging far more with colour and shape. This new approach involves far less heavy reworking. The paintings are lighter in touch and in tone and I sense that this changing concern has breathed new life into my work. There is a new immediacy and freedom in my work which I feel reflects pleasure in the process".

And the results are for all to see: there is a confidence and an optimism in her work that is highly infectuous.  When people come into the gallery, they smile and feel instantly relaxed by the joyfulness of the work.  It is beautiful, but also extremely calming and very colourful - a real feast for the eyes.  With the turning of the season into Spring, what better inspiration could we all ask for?

I'll leave you with one more example:

 

'James Stewart', oil on canvas, by Cathy Campbell.

To see the rest, you'll just have to find the time to come into the gallery before the exhibition closes on April 2nd.

Speak soon. 

Cathy Campbell goes solo!

It's been a long time in the making, but it will be more than worth the wait......

We look forward to sharing the fruits of labour.
See you Thursday!

Endless Possible Futures

Hello everyone,

I've been thinking lately that the month of January gets quite a lot of bad press.  Sure, it can be grey, cold and tight financially, but lets face it, it is just a month in a man-made calendar and surely it can be just what you make it?  Perhaps we should enforce some mind over matter.....

On Tuesday, here in Edinburgh we experienced the coldest day so far this winter which, of course, is to be expected at this time of year. But it was also a beautiful day with bright blue skies and, dare I say it, a welcome appearance from the sun!  So it may have been cold, but it was also a day to feel positive about the impending arrival of Spring in a month or so.

At UG we are also feeling positive and excited about the amazing exhibitions we have lined up for this year and about what the future may bring.  I've been thinking a lot about this high voltage number and believe it sums up out positive state of mind:

'Endless Possible Futures', oil on canvas, by Patsy McArthur.
Award-winning artist Patsy McArthur will be having a major exhibition with us in the 'endless possible future, and it will be a belter.  But as we all know, the best things come to those who wait....

In the  meantime, if I have failed to persuade you that January is not a really shite month, the have a look at what else is coming up:

A truly inspirational and beautiful start to the year.  Not to be missed....

Blimey!  And then we have this:

'Ragged Robin', oil on canvas, by Cathy Campbell.
Folks, if Glasgow-based painter Cathy Campbell's still lifes don't melt your heart, nothing will!  Subtle yet powerful, I believe that Cathy's paintings are a metaphor not just for the artist, but for many of our lives - a highly skilled and unique talent that speaks a universal language.  There is a lot of interest in Cathy Campbell's first solo exhibition in Edinburgh and we want to share it with as many visitors as possible.  So don't be shy, come and be inspired in March.

And here's a lovely photo of artists Kevin Low and Stewart Bremner finalising details of their exhibition, 'Worlds Apart', which will open on Kevin's birthday, April 5th.  It won't only be a party to remember, but a stunning exhibition to boot.

We've only tickled the surface of UG's delights for 2012, so stay tuned to learn more about award-winning artists Jenny Matthews and Janet Melrose RSW, and brilliant artistic assassin Norrie Harman.

Speak soon.

Ending with...

Hello everyone

Firstly, I want to say a huge thanks to all 20 of the artists that made "Small and Perfectly Crafted" so, well, perfect! As there were so many different styles on show it made for a really visually stimulating exhibition. Just the thing to kick-start a new year.
So it was lovely, on the last weeknd of the exhibition, to have an unexpected visit from the lovely artist Cathy Campbell:

Cathy Campbell's still life paintings are truly delicious.
Earlier in the week:

Plotting and planning with artist and partner in crime Stewart Bremner. I was treated to a very tasty supper with home made bread, also delicious.
All the way from NYC:

My father is having a cultural vacation in the Big Apple. I thought it would be nice if he visited Hannah Haworth, creator of "The Hunt", to see her first solo exhibition in New York. Unfortunately, he arrived on a Sunday and the gallery was closed. Thanks for your efforts though Dad, and for sending photographic evidence that you did actually make the trip! This photo is of Auldjo family friend Ian Ferguson. Looks like they're having a good time.
Leaving you with this:

Brave Forsythia is always a welcome blast of colour in February. I think it will also be the perfect floral accompaniment for the next, powerful exhibition:

and....

Being Human opens this Thursday and is definitely an exhibition not to be missed.

Everlasting

Hello everyone

Well folks, we are again fast approaching that dreaded time of year. Oh yes, ladies and gentlemen, Valentines Day. Fear not though, at Union Gallery we believe we have a solution :)
Boycott this over-inflated, marketing, non event of the year! DO NOT feel pressurised into wasting money on cards, chocolates, silly teddies, or worse....a "romantic meal out". Do you really want to be squashed in with a group of equally uncomfortable couples in the name of "love"?
For all you 'singles' out there....we salute you! Revel in your independence and take no notice of what Tesco's, John Lewis, Anne Summers, or any other crass big business 'tells' you what you should be doing on Feb 14th. However, if you are lucky enough to be in a loving and meaningful relationship, and feel the need to signify this in some way, perhaps you should secure a little treasure. And, if you're a happy single, reward yourself and treat yourself to a truly special gift. When you weigh up the cost of 'junk'....the cards, balloons, chocolates and novelty gifts, you will be surprised. Of course, the true beauty of buying an original, meaningful and one-off work of art is...it's everlasting. The current exhibition "Small and Perfectly Crafted" means that you can secure a beautiful work of art for under £200 and is aptly running until Feb 14th for your convenience.
However, if you are a real romantic and beautiful flowers simply can't be overlooked (I salute you too!) then why not invest in somethat will last forever?

"Lilie's". Oil on board by Cathy Campbell.
or

"Cocolate Cosmos". Watercolour by Jenny Matthews.
With such a beautiful gift you get the best of both worlds...chocolate and flowers that will stand the test of time.
When February 14th comes, have fun whatever you're doing and don't go breaking any hearts! x

SAD?

Hello everyone

Apparently today is the most depressing day in the calendar. Dubbed 'Blue Monday', psychologists say that a combination of the weather, post-festive blues and financial worries make this the most depressing day of the year.

So, at UNIONgallery we are going to look at things a bit differently. Firstly, after today 'Blue Monday' will be over - a thing of the past - and you will only have 348 days left to make the best of 2011. It IS a new year and I have higher hopes for the artists, gallery visitors and for the gallery itself than ever before. I truly believe that even in these difficult times brilliant things can be achieved. I also believe that artists - creative, resourceful and forward-thinking individuals - are the very ones to pull together and to make a difference for the better.... for everyone's benefit. Indeed, with the world seeming an increasingly brutal place, I believe that there is even more need for art. I know this: I am lucky enough to experience it, day in and day out.

Always remember that at UNIONgallery we have an 'open door' policy. The inspiring and uplifting artwork we exhibit is to be shared and enjoyed by everyone, and I am convinced that just a look will help to alleviate any Blue Monday or SAD symptoms.

This will put a smile on your face:

Artists Imogen Alabaster, Mark Nicholas Edwards and Christine Clark worked hard throughout the freezing temperatures to achieve what is now affectionately known as 'The Wonder Wall'. Their work may be on a small scale, but it is the epitome of what 'Small and Perfectly Crafted' is about.

Leaving you with this, which I hope will create more smiles:
There has been much talk about the new man in my life. Ladies and Gentlemen, introducing......HENRY:
  

I have given him a test drive over the weekend and it's true.....we are inseperable. My New Year's Resolution? Clean up my act!

Speak soon.....

"SMALL AND PERFECTLY CRAFTED"

Hello everyone

Overinduldged at Christmas? Did everything supersize?

The perfect little fix is here.....

and......

If Santa was good enough to put some cash in your stocking, then this is the perfect exhibition to treat yourself to something really special.

Big can be beautiful, but tiny treasures can hold there own.

There are some real stunners in this exhibition and, in spite of the smaller scale of the work, there is no shortage of quality.

Last weekend to view "The Hunt" and many other beautiful artworks from the Christmas show.

BIRTHDAY BLOG II

Hello everyone

No, it's not my birthday again. Although Union Gallery will be celebrating it's 1st birthday very soon.....I am SO EXCITED!!

It was the birthday of regular gallery visitor and now friend Lillian Redhead yesterday. Mr & Mrs Redhead popped in as crafty old John had told his gorgeous missus that she was getting a jigsaw puzzle for her birthday! How could he? However, on opening said present, she discovered that it was infact:

WOW. Now that's what I call a present; what a perfect husband!
"Through The Net Curtain" by Philip Braham is a unique and very special painting and it could not have gone to a better home. As I say: I love happy endings.

Happy Birthday Lillian!
John and Lillian took the opportunity to have a last look round the "Not So Still" exhibition which you all still have time to do.....my offer of a wee gin and tonic whilst viewing still stands. A really beautiful exhibition and a huge thank you to all the artists involved: Georgie Young, Cathy Campbell, Jean Hall, Suzanne Kempley, Astrid Trugg, Ruth Addinal, Drummond Mayo and of course Philip Braham.
Leaving you with this:

I am pleased to report that I finally got my "art n tart" date with lovely Stewart Bremmner. He is coming along nicely with his new abstract style and I can also happily report that his famous pies are in fact the business. Mmmmmm.....

Have a great weekend everyone x

Not So Still

Hello
Thought we would have a closer peek at a few things in the current "Not So Still" exhibition.
I knew that this exhibition was going to look good, however it's even better than I could have dreamt. I knew a lot of the work had flowers in them, so I thought it important to include some related foliage.

Kicking off with this:

I have already mentioned Union Gallery's humble cactus, mainly in the Jenny Matthews "Full Bloom" entry. Yes, this little fella will be doing his thing shortly, but for now I think he is complementing the following:

"Pot Plant" by Drummond Mayo.

It's just coincedence, but I think that Drummond's gorgeous painting is actually of this particular variety of cactus. My old cactus also works well with this beauty by artist Cathy Campbell:

"Early Morning Studio" by Cathy Cambpell.

Obviously this is not a cactus...a spider plant I think.....feel free to correct me. Either way everyone who views this subtle and delicately balanced painting is in agreement that it's top drawer wor: spines and spiders besides.

Next up:

"Protea and Lace" by Georgie Young.

I adore Proteas, their spiky almost unatural appearance fascinates me. I did worry that I may not get my hands on any for the exhibition.  However, as you can see, I did, care of my mother. Thanks mum!

Proteas are the national flower of South Africa, which I am reliably informed (thank you) is the chosen destination for some important football tournament this year???

"Tulips" by Jean Hall.

I picked tulips from my own garden to compliment Jean Hall's striking painting....that way I knew they wouldn't clash. I even have a spare batch lined up for when these chaps get past their best.

  

I have a lovely gallery visitor to thank for the use of the Chinese Latterns to compliment Suzanne Kempley's painting. He took pity on me after I told him that Union Gallery hound Harry ate my sprig! I also want to point out that, through the wonders of my shocking camera skills, I have managed to distort the above image. The paintings ARE NOT SQUINT.

I thought better than to get in some kippers for Astrid Trugg's painting:

 

"Four fish and a lemon" by Astrid Trugg.

I did opt for a lemon though....that way I have an excuse to purchase some gin and tonic which, I have discovered, is an excellent way to take in all of these clever and very beautiful paintings. If you fancy a little pick-me-up whilst viewing some wonderful art then feel free to join me.

Speak soon x

HAPPY BUNNIES

Greetings everyone
just wanted to show you who's all been hopping into Union Gallery of late.

Yes, that is a spotty leg you see, taking far too much interest in my Easter treat, care of marvellous landscape painter Hazel Cashmore as seen below:

It was lovely to see Hazel Cashmore again. We are in touch quite a bit, but nothing beats a good old face to face chinwag. We enjoyed a fabulous "coffee morning" together, topped off with cheese cake.......we did NOT count the calories. I should say that Hazel felt a little nervous about being snapped infront of her own painting, but she should be incredibly proud of her work! Actually, the whole morning was lovely, not only to spend time with Hazel, but she got the opportunity to meet artists Cathy Campbell and Georgie Young. It was wonderful to have three such brilliant and creative brains under one roof, genuinely enthused to meet each other and see their work. I think it may even have cracked a smile on my scowly face! Hazel and I will be teaming up together for a landscape exhibition later on in the year. I am both thrilled and a tad nervous at the prospect of exhibiting alongside Hazel Cashmore. Will have to sharpen the old paint brushes.
Next Happy Bunny:

















Lovely landscape painter John Carberry popped in to check I was "behaving myself". But of course I always behave myself John! I like this photo-me in my diamond print sweater and John sporting the stripes. We shall be seeing more of John's brilliant landscapes shortly......naturally I will keep you posted.
Next Two Bunnies:

Artist Lisa Petterson brought in little Hugo for a look round the gallery. Little Hugo recently celebrated his 1st birthday (Happy Birthday Hugo!) and like all children who visit the gallery he was so excited by sculptor Barbara Franc's "Little Donkey". As I say all kiddies who visit the gallery always seem attracted to the sculptures and I encourage this wholeheartedly. How rewarding to share all the talent and imaginations of the brilliant artists showing at the gallery with such little brains. Apart from reading books, fresh air and exercise (I know, what a fuddy duddy) what could be more inspiring than visiting an art gallery.....and it's free! Children are always so genuine and really switched on when they visit the gallery, but at only a year old, Hugo was fascinating to watch. Me thinks perhaps he has inherited his mummies creative genes.
Last but by no mean least:

Charming gallery visitors Sara Jane Robinson and Joanna Moor couldn't resist a wee tickle at Barbara Franc's "Palmer"

Happy Easter Everyone x

Not so still

Hello everyone

Just thought I'd let you know whats going on in Union Gallery at the moment.
Last month saw me take delivery of some of the finest still life paintings I have seen. Indeed, the gallery is looking uber sophisticated, elegant, grown up and classy......all adjectives I am not normally associated with!

It was wonderful to finally meet Cathy Campbell and of course to finally see her work for real! I knew I wasn't going to be disappointed: see that little one at the front there? "Winter Table" its absolutely gorgeous and I have it strategically positioned opposite me in the gallery, so I can look at it all day. Cathy has never shown in Edinburgh before, so I am thrilled to have found her and to be able to show you all her beautiful work. She's fascinated by light and how it falls on the objects in her paintings. She can work for months on a single painting, as she likes to go back to the piece and capture it at different times of the day. The paint is super thick on some of her work, at times actually forming peaks.....delicious!

And take a look at this little treaure. "Orchid in Brass Pot" by Suzanne Kempley. If you look really, really closely you can just make out Suzanne's reflection in the pot. You can just see her and her easel as she works away at the painting.....amazing! It's hanging on the wall right now so if you can't make it out from this little image, come in and I'll show you. Suzanne also takes a long time to produce her work as everything she has ever painted has been observed from life. She wouldn't dream of using photographs.
The next piece is possibly my favourite of Suzanne's:

"Gourd with White Flowers". Those delicate little white flowers look like collage, however it is actually painted. The shadow under the gourd in the foreground is painted in gold leaf.  Again, quite stunning.

And what about this tasty number:

"Evening" by Astrid Trugg. This painting has so much charm and I adore the subtle palette. Again, you may not be able to make it out from this image but, on the grey section of the background there is written a list of some of my favourite things.....Tarte aux chocolate, sorbet, chocolat chuad. Heaven on a canvas - well board actually. Astrid works on board as she likes to build up layers of paint, then scrape back and build them up again to achieve the desired effect.
Another artist who prefers to work on board and uses layering and scaping away of paint is the wonderful Georgie Young:

"Protea and Lace" has the actual lace imprints on it. Some of which I believe to be the designs of her own father who was a lacemaker. Beautiful.
Another lacey number:

"Tulips" by Jean Hall. Quite a lot of Jean's work derives from an interest in Indian fabrics and other objects, having lived there for some time. I so enjoy the sense of order and calm in Jean's work.
We will be taking a closer look at the work in the Not So Still exhibition, paying particular attention to the flowers used.
After hours. I am leaving you with this happy image.We were blessed with a little visit from artist David Hosie (left) who came in just after the opening of the exhibition. Interestingly, he was immediately drawn to Cathy Campbell's work.

Speak soon x