Openings, Hangings & Shenanigans

Hello everyone

So we have almost recovered from the excitement of Audrey Grant's exhibition opening.
What a great night!

I thought I'd share a few snaps of the hanging, opening and the exhibition generally.
Of course, the best way to experience Audrey Grant's paintings properly is to see them for real so please come in to see for yourself.

Here's a good place to start:

What goes on behind closed doors:

Rob handling administration during the hanging.

My good self 'faffing'.
Does my bum look big in this?!?

One frantic opening!

One happy UG team!
Photo shows Leopold (our wonderful intern from Edinburgh University), artist Martyn McKenzie who exhibited with Audrey last year, Audrey Grant herself and Robert Dawkins.

Leaving you with this:

An outbreak of measels has occured at UG.
Well done Audrey Grant!

Speak soon.

Gone Potty!

Hello everyone

Here's a couple of photos from Thursday night's opening which was great fun! Thanks to all who came along and made it such an enjoyable evening. A great way to start the new year!

Many thanks to artist Ian Rawnsley for traveling over from Glasgow to make the opening. I really like this photo of him standing in front of his latest work which is of his usual excellent standard.
'Rannoch Moor' in particular is a belter!

'Rannoch Moor', oil on board by Ian Rawnsley.

All smiles....

Recently graduated Martyn McKenzie spent his Christmas working away on his paintings for the 'It's The Little Things' exhibition. It was well worth it and 'Old Chain Pier' actually had people fighting over it!

'Old Chain Pier', oil and pencil on panel by Martyn Mckenzie.

I can understand why. It's beautifully done and has such a lovely feel to it.

Here are Martyn's pieces together:

'Estuary East. Studies', oil and pencil on panel, by Martyn McKenzie.

Lastly I must apologise to artist James Newton Adams who came down all the way from Skye to attend the opening. My famous camera skills went potty and you came out too blurred to appear on this blog. Sorry James!
His new work is fantastic and I'm enjoying looking at this one everyday:

'Gone Potty', acrylic on card by James Newton Adams.

Speak soon!

The Sleeping Man

Hello everyone

Hoping you are all OK and having a super weekend.
I'm going to end the 'Being Human' exhibition with a nod to this anonymous, yet peaceful chap:

"Man Asleep" Pen on Paper Study by Martyn McKenzie.
I really like this drawing and in particular the sleeping fella.
He appears to be completely out of it, blissfully fast asleep
and oblivious to his surroundings. He is cosy and content....not
a bad place to be considering this chap will spend an eternity in
this position. Well observed Martyn.
I noticed this little comment in Martyn's visitors book:
'Martyn, you work is special, you are special!'
I couldn't agree more.

If you want to meet The Mustard Man, Sleeping Man and the other figures in 'Being Human' then
you will have to be pronto. Exhibition finishes Monday!

Speak soon

The Mustard Man

The current exhibition, 'Being Human', is now in its final week and, as usual when an exhibition draws to a close, I am experiencing higher than normal levels of anxiety.  I haven't had it this bad since Derek McGuire's solo exhibition, 'Ella Novo Loco'.  Such is the intensity of the work on display that I know I am going to feel quite flat when it is gone.
I thought it would be nice to take a closer look at, and celebrate all that is good and great about, a few of the paintings on display.

We have to start here:

'Man Standing with Yellow Background', oil on canvas, Audrey Grant, 2010
Gosh.  I confess that I struggle to find the words to explain the emotional connection that I, and many others, have made with this painting.  To put it plainly, something about this painting 'got me' as soon as I saw it, and it has conitinued to have an effect on me ever since.  Perhaps the strength of this painting is largely summed up by a note left by an admirer in Audrey Grant's vistors book:
'Audrey, you restore one's faith in painting'. 
I can't help but feel a great deal of affection for, and fascination with, 'Mustard Man' as I have knicknamed him, and I feel that a large part of that is fueled by some of the subtle details that make him so connected to the subject of 'Being Human'.

This perfect little finger is one of them.....

I have mentioned before that Audrey is a 'physical' painter: she fights with her materials to achieve her distinctive and powerful images.  Yet, in that intense and prolonged battle (Audrey's paintings are months in the making), you catch glimpses of real tenderness and a deeply humane attention to detail:

'Mustard Man' may well be a little lost, fragile, even 'up against it' in the world he inhabits, but looking at his perfectly and lovingly painted ear set against a yellow glow, it's clear that his maker was determined to send him out looking his best.  He will stand the test of time.

Finally, a big thank you to the kind soul who left us this beautiful orchid:

He explained that he wanted to give it to the gallery as he felt that we and our visitors would genuinely appreciate its beauty.  We most certainly do!  I have positioned it next to:

'Standing Figure', oil on canvas, Audrey Grant 2010.
Affectionately known as 'Socks', I thought that the flower complimented his colouring rather well.

Hurry back soon to discover some more about ECA student, Martyn McKenzie's work.  As someone has written in his visitors book:
'Your work is very special - you are very special!'
Couldn't agree more.....

Speak soon.

Framed

Hello everyone

I thought it might be nice to show you some behind the scenes pictures of preparations in the lead up to the 'Being Human' exhibition. Before that, I would encourage those of you who haven't made it in yet to do so -and a HUGE thank you to the visitors who have. I really love this exhibition and I think it's important to value and and encourage the promising talent that is Martyn Mckenzie. Equally you need to experience and contemplate the fragile perfection that is Audrey Grant's work. I'm not sure how long it will be before you can appreciate her work again in this context.
This is Audrey:

All smiles. Having worked intensively for a year to create these beautiful paintings it was essential to get the framing just right. This is Audrey with Jamie from Leith Frame Studio, who's input and advise has been invaluable. The quality of craftsmanship, and attention to detail, from these folks has done Audrey Grant's work justice and ensured this part of the process ran extra smoothly. Thank you:http://www.leithframing.com/

Leith Frame Studio's pooch 'Bailey' takes it all in his stride.

Again, the presentation of Martyn Mckenzie's work was also critical. Many of his large scale works simply sit right at home in their own skins. However, we thought it was important to include some of his drawings and etchings that demonstrate his thorough research and understanding of the subject matter:

Decisions, decisions! Framing is often an art in itself and getting the balance right can take a bit of thought. This is especially so when it comes to delicate lines and mark making such as:

"Moving Stairs" etching 2010 by Martyn McKenzie.
It's important that the frame enhances rather then encroaches on more delicate works. The less is more rule often applies in these instances.
Leaving you with this:

In keeping with the 'Being Human' theme and continuing with a nod to the unsung and inspirational, this is Betty & John. I see them a lot around these parts, and every time I do they go some way to restore my faith in humanity and the importance of partnerships. Betty & John have been together for an astonishing 51 years and every time I see them they are smiling, holding hands and thriving on each others company. I hope to be this content in my later years.

Speak soon

The Rat Race: Being Human, Martyn McKenzie

Hello Everyone

So last time we looked at the captivating work of award winning artist Audrey Grant.

Now it's time for the other half of this very 'on trend' exhibition, third year Edinburgh College of Art student Martyn McKenzie:

Martyn McKenzie beside "Marmaris Park Bar" during the installation of 'Being Human'

Boy, where to begin!
Firstly, I think you have to applaud this young man's talent, spirit and conviction. To take on the role of voyeur and translate feelings and scenes we have all experienecd through such young eyes is no mean feat:

"I often find people strange: their actions, the way they infest man-made environments, clustered together in buildings or moving fast across roads or railways lines...We have created such a surreal world: a world to entertain ourselves and to consume".

Well said Martyn. I'm pretty sure I am not alone in agreeing with you that I too find the world a very strange, even scary place (particulary just now) and like many others ask the common question, "what's it all about"?

"Moving Stairs" 2010, oil on board by Martyn McKenzie.

How often do you want to scream out when life becomes increasingly pressurised and the expectations of us as humans becomes too much? Unless you're very lucky we've all been there.
I recently found out that Martyn is the third year students painitng rep at ECA: good choice folks. Martyn is a 'do'er', who gets on with the job and delivers results.

Martyn MacKenzie's talent doesn't just stop with paintings like:

"Ice Cream Break" 2010, oil on board. This painting  shows an  interest in music and live gigs. A little further probing and it turns out that Martyn is a fine musician too. Watch this video - Martyn is not only playing the guitar and singing, he actually wrote this song, "Carousel". At the risk of sounding a bit Cheryl Cole...I'm proud of you Martyn! Enjoy.

http://vimeo.com/19725058

Being Human: Audrey Grant

Sadly my blueberry had a melt down at the New Year.

So tragically I have lost precious footage of the development of award winning artist Audrey Grant's body of work. It was fascinating and compelling to see the work unfold.
One has to admire Audrey's total commitment and determination. She battled through an horrific winter everyday to her not exactly warm studio. Any artist will tell you that this can sometimes be a thankless and solitary experience. Some days you go in, put in hours of draining, mental (and physical) work and are left feeling utterly demoralised. As Audrey's paintings take months to develop, she has been working on this exhibition for a year. She is a 'physical' painter, who fights and nurtures her paintings every step of the way, and that can be an exhausting experience where often the hand to eye coordination can't keep up with the brain.
I think it's fair to say that you can feel that intensity and perfection from the work. So, looking at Audrey's paintings is also an experience- both moving and enlightening. These are important paintings to spend time with and contemplate and in this increasingly stressful world, I think Audrey's paintings will strike a chord with everyone. After all, we are all mere mortals making our way through the world. When I look at Audrey's work there is a startling familiarity. I recognise and empathise with the fragility, the awkwardness, even the loneliness of the nameless figures captured in paint:

"Man Standing with Yellow Background", oil on canvas. Audrey Grant 2010.
I look at the above painting and actually think, yes, I know that....I've been there.
I am so grateful that there are artists like Audrey Grant who have a gift in translating these raw emotions through canvas and paint.

I would like you to experience these paintings too.

Next time we will be taking a closer look at the work "Being Human"'s other half, ECA student Martyn McKenzie.

In keeping with the 'Being Human' theme I thought it would be nice to introduce a few inspirational and unsung heroes:

This is Tony. Tony had been a BIG ISSUE vendor for 6 years and has a wealth of life-experience stories. Day in, day out, you will find him outside Tesco's at the bottom of Broughton Street. I'm sure a lot if you living in Edinburgh will instantly recognise his 'well kent' face. Tony is always smiling and genuinely enjoys his work: I always find a bit of banter with Tony puts a spring in my step. I also owe him a huge thank you for looking after the Union Gallery hounds when I pop in for the groceries. Particularly Harry, the crazy and rather difficult Dalmatian. Please buy your Big ISSUE from Tony.

Lastly. Masses of best wishes to our dear friends Mr and Mrs Gough who's baby twin girls were born on this day 2011. Congratulations!

The Bold & The Beautiful

Hello everyone

So the opening of the "Being Human" exhibition got off to a spanking start!

What a really great night, well attended by artists, buyers and lovely friends and family members of teams Grant and McKenzie. Great things can happen when you all pull together.

This is definitely worth a read:
http://www.broughtonspurtle.org.uk/news/learning-be-human-union-gallery

Here is the footage:

and.....

I found this curiosity whilst going through the photos:

I can only assume this was after hours, during the clear up phase. I think I resemble some kind of mischievous, chair stealing gnome! Goes to show I have a sense of humour....sometimes.

Lastly:

A thoughtful gallery visitor and Audrey Grant admirer brought in this beautiful posy of snowdrops from her garden. There's over a hundred snowdrops in there....that's a lot of picking! A warming human touch.

Have a great weekend everyone.

Good News!

Hello everyone

Have a wee listen to this:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/programmes/hardtalk/9052099.stm

Edward Dolman is the chairman of Christies who recently sold an important Picasso painting for £34.7 million, setting a new record for a work of art sold at auction. As with Giacometti's "Walking Man" earlier on in the year, I narrowly missed out on my bid.

Earlier in the week the BBC were reporting form a gallery currently showing the work of Timmy Mallett. Again, they discussed how art is increasingly becoming an attractive investment in these challenging times.

Sadly, I do not represent Picasso, and I'm pretty sure there are no Mallets in here! However, there are some extremely fine yet powerful paintings on display in the current exhibition, Landmarks II.

Take a look:

On the back wall is the work of 3rd year ECA student Martyn McKenzie who I have a lot of admiration for.
I think he has a very intuitive style which is quite a mature skill in an artist. He has great control of the paint and I think could give me a run for my money on the old landscape front! When he talks about his work he does so with sincerity and conviction. At only 22 I think Martyn is going to be a very special painter.

Have a good weekend all x

Autumn Watch

Hello everyone

As always a warm welcome to our latest blog follower - hope you are well.

Continuing on the Autumn theme folks, I think I mentioned previously that this is my favourite time of the year to be out in the landscape. Autumn is a landscape painters paradise: amazing cloud formations, glittering light and enriched, enhanced colours.
I'm itching to be out in the wilderness currently, however meantime I am content with my usual stomping ground - Inverleith Park. In between throwing balls and scooping dog poo, I was amazed by this:

Ok, it's been amateurishly and hurriedly snapped, but I hope you "get the picture" (apologies for another feeble joke). I can categorically assert that the sky has not been enhanced or tickled with in any way....that's beyond my capabilities. Seeing this sky immediately made me think of:

"Morning of the Autumn Equinox". An exceptional and eerie painting by award winning artist Philip Braham.
We will see more of Philip's work next year....will keep you posted.

I have to confess to being annoyed with myself for not managing a couple of pieces of my own for "Landmarks II". I knew all the work coming in was going to be superb, but seeing it all hanging together, it really is quite beautiful. I would have loved to be a part of it. Take a look at this:

"Winter Solstice in the Strath" by Hazel Cashmore.

All the way from Thurso, Hazel Cashmore's latest paintings are truly gorgeous. I've been studying her "land meets sky" precision- and she really is the expert. I have also realised that, apart from the brilliant painterly qualities, she is also an expert with colour. These are colourful paintings, yet Hazel's discerning eye and control ensures they are never "shocking" or over the top. Her paintings are both dramatic and sexy, not to mention well observed.

Speaking of drama:

"Big Buachaille" by Beth Robertson Fiddes.

Wow....big skies, roaming mountains, it surely doesn't get better than this?

Of course I want you to come in and see all the paintings for real. This piece for example has exquisite collage work that you can't see here.

Next up. We will be taking a look at 3rd year ECA drawing and painting student, Martyn McKenzie. He's really, very good!!

Have a good weekend.....

Busy Blog!

Hello everyone

Well it's been a busy old week here at Union Gallery - don't forget there's still time to come in and view the treasures from the current exhibition "Summer Cocktail". You shouldn't miss out.

Sunday:

Care of my wonderful friend and brilliant writer, Chris Docker, I attended the screening of The Man Who Would Be King. My mission...to press gang Sir Sean Connery into buying an original artwork to mark his 80th birthday....alas, I failed. Happy Birthday anyway Sir Sean.

Monday:

Had a wee look round an exhibition opening at the Craigmillar Community Arts Centre. I was genuinely inpressed and so happy that a community had become so close through a shared interest in art.

Tuesday:

Another talent search, another opening.

Wednesday:

Early morning studio visit to award winning artist Olivia Irvine in preperation for her part in Union Gallery's Festival exhibition (tip...it's going to be AMAZING). I always love coming here:)

Later that morning did a spot of moth watching at the studio of deadly talented Dylan Lisle. He's coming up next in truly spectacular form, but for now here's a little teaser:

Simply superb. Later that evening I attended a talk by acclaimed artist John C Brown on his latest print for a fundraising drive for the excellent charity Art in Healthcare. Unfortunately I discovered that it was in fact the next night.....back again! I'm sure Art in Healthcare's assistant director Trevor Jones will find this highly ammusing.

Finally - some footage from last weeks Artists party/Union Gallery's first birthday.

Alan McIntosh from our favourite local paper, Spurtle, beside artists Olivia Irvine and Lisa Petterson. Amazing landscape painter Hazel Cashmore is just disapearing off on the right. Maybe I should have cropped the empties.

Lovely 3rd year ECA student Martyn McKenzie on the right. Winning smile!

Stunning artist Laura Homoky sporting a rather fabulous Maxi dress....I want one!

UG Christmas Party continued!!

Well everyone it's nearly time....and I am getting REALLY excited.

Remember the entry I did about hanging the Christmas Exhibition? I mentioned there were horrid Frank Spencer moments. Anyway sure enough on the second day of hanging one of cables on the window display gave in....luckily no paintings, nor I, were injured during this "comedy" moment. Today my pal Stewart from Edmonds came in to put it right. Edmonds are responsible for our fabulous website, all our printing, invitations and flyers etc. I have to say they are very good, never let us down and remain calm when we have crazy last minute requests!
This is Stewart. He was a wee bit camera shy.

Not so camera shy.....

The upstanding Mr McKenna. We were again blessed with the presence of Mr McKenna today. I think it's wonderful that someone as busy as him finds time in his hectic schedule to pay us a visit and see what's new and what we have been up to. I think he likes the blog.

Union Gallery glowing at night. Not long now and it will hopefully be packed.

Right I'm off to get the party frock on!

Here we go....this is my father. He paints the Geese and Coots.

Never noticed how tall he is until looking at this photo. Eek I think my frock is clashing somewhat with the beautiful Janet Melrose paintings. Do you see the still life painting to the right of my father? It's titled "Paisley Hen" and it's by Georgie Young...you may remember me raving about Georgie's work before.

This picture shows Georgie (red coat) and gallery supporters.

Just reassuring Barbara Frank's "Little Donkey" that the Union Gallery artist's party really isn't something to be feared...really!

This is my "little" brother Daniel who is responsible for the Hammerhead Sharks. He got married earlier on in the year....a big hello to the new Mrs Auldjo!

Just behind me on the right is the Dashing Mr Trevor Jones. Mr Jones and I shall be teaming up next Tuesday evening (December 8th) from 6.30 pm to launch the first ever Heart event. Trevor will be giving a talk about his stunning absract paintings and also to tell us more about the amazing work of Art in Healthcare. I too will be giving a talk about the gallery and my own work...will do my best not to bore everyone to sleep. Please feel free to come along to listen to us. No cabbages allowed.

Right this is our youngest recruit Matyn McKenzie. I think he enjoyed himself last night. He maybe a youngster but he could certainly put away the mulled vino!

It was Martyn who painted the wonderful "Shadowed Sea". A star in the making. We are having the piece below framed up for an exhibition in February. It's a big painting and when I viewed it for the fisrt time it immediately put me in mind of Claude Monet's "Lily Pond" although I would say Martyn's painting has a lot more energy. Good stuff.

Above is artist Christine Clark on the right. I showed you one of her superior drawings in the Halloween entry. Very stylish and very slick in their plain black frames. That's Christine's sister on the left. They are so alike!

Well luckily for all involved the classic schoolboy error of flat camera batteries meant no one could be ridiculed. Below is a nice gentle number. I love the way the windows are steaming up.

And this curiosity. Yes probably best the camera was put away.

I think we all had a great time and I even managed to squeeze in a spot of dancing care of the lovely Christine McGuire, natural mover and wife of artist Derek McGuire.