Lights, camera and ACTION!

Hello everyone

I hope you are going to see some shows at the Edinburgh Festival. If so I do hope you will pop in and see the fabulous Kevin Low exhibition here at UG.
In the meantime here's a short and sweet video by artist Stewart Bremner of the Kevin Low exhibition opening night. Just paste it into your browser.
If you were there maybe you can spot yourself!

https://vimeo.com/71750061


If you're in Edinburgh this weekend the Kevin will be in the gallery on Saturday between 2-4.00pm to show a few of his tricks and talks about his inspirations behind the work.

I can't wait! x

Blue Monday

Hello everyone

As today has been nominated Blue Monday and is thought to be the most depressing day of the year, I thought I'd try to cheer you up with some indoors shots from UG.

'It's The Little Things' exhibition does exactly what is says on the tin.
The works maybe small but they are definitely perfectly formed.
Take a look at these:

The ever accomplished work by award-winning artist Mark Nicholas Edward.
His latest series is titled 'Joy In The Little Things' and they do just that!
Measuring an ickle 15cmx15cm it never ceases to amaze me the precision Mark can achieve on such a tight scale.
Also looking super slick:

The new paintings by Stewart Bremner.
Stewart worked extremely hard over the Festive season to ensure his latest work would be ready and dry in time for the exhibition. The results are well worth it and I think could be his strongest pieces to date. Stewart Bremner is working and exhibiting in the States right now and all here at UG wish him every success.

'New Primitive', oil on canvas by Iain Robertson.

I have picked out the above work as my painting for the day. Bright, cheerful and confidently  executed, it's the perfect tonic for January blues.

Last but by no means least:

On the right is team UG's latest addition.
At only 8 weeks old, little Dennis might be small but he too is perfectly formed and an excellent January tonic.

Keep cosy all!

The Incredible Journey

Hello everyone

As the month of April trickles away and the amazing Worlds Apart exhibition heads towards its final weekend, I've been thinking about how both artists, Kevin Low and Stewart Bremner have been on quite an epic journey to have arrived at this show.

I think it's fair to say that all artists are on a journey of some sort when they create a new body of work, and that in doing so they bring with it their inner-most thoughts, observations and life experiences.  I think that artist Stewart Bremner's new work epitomises this often gruelling and emotional process. 

Some of you who have visited the exhibition will know that Stewart's work is largely a response to his relatively new relationship with fellow artist Megan Chapman.  Of course, some of you will have viewed the paintings 'just as they are' with no back story, and simply appreciated them for all that makes a great painting - and that's brilliant too.  Very abstract in form, Stewart's work can pack a punch and trigger the imagination unlike many other styles of painting.  I guess I am in a privileged position as a gallery owner, and indeed I believe it is my business to learn as much as possible about the work we exhibit and the creator.  I find it impossible to separate the two.  Ultimately, what makes the artist 'tick' is revealed in the final product - which makes it all the more fascinating.

So I take my hat off to Stewart Bremner for having the courage to lay down in paint such personal thoughts, and to produce work that is both compelling and beautiful.  I've been wondering what love looks like - perhaps it looks like this:

'Two Worlds Collide', mixed media, by Stewart Bremner.

How do you encapsulate the highs and lows, the uncertainties and the hopes of a relationship in such an uncertain world?  For me, in this strange world, I think this is the one:

 
















'When We Float', mixed media, by Stewart Bremner.

Artists Stewart Bremner and Megan Chapman will be heading to the States, Megan's home, next month.  I'm sure that the journey that played such a big role in Worlds Apart will continue and will flourish in the work.  I wish them both well.

Speak soon.

Behind Closed Doors

Hello everyone,

Some of you regular visitors to UG may already have met one of our closest partners - someone who has already appeared on this blog several times.  The partner in question is artist Stewart Bremner.

We are particularly close to Stewart, as he was one of the artists we showed in our inaugural exhibition, 'Introducing', back in 2009.  He has also been the brain behind all our fantastic videos, and the one behind our better photography moments.  Stewart Bremner has also been very generous with his expertise in graphic design and illustration, giving us pointers with our website and social media efforts - although we are clearly still learning!
It was also Stewart Bremner to whom we entrusted the running of UG whilst we were off having our own 'Union' in 2010.

Here he is the day after our wedding, handling it all in his usual cool and unflustered style:

So our partnership with Stewart works on many levels: he is a partner, a comrade, a total grafter and, of course, now a good friend.

However, if you put all that aside,  and even if he was a total pain in the arse, you cannot ignore the fact that he is a great painter - and that is currently what we are most interested in.  I've mentioned all these qualities that you naturally want to gravitate to, but in the lead up to his 'Worlds Apart' exhibition with artist Kevin Low, and looking at the raw, uncompromising and immaculate work he has produced, I believe that we have found the nerve-centre and indeed the very psyche of Stewart Bremner.

 












Every artist will tell you that exhibiting their work is akin to baring your soul for the scrutiny of others.  What can I say, Mr. Bremner?  I salute you for doing so with such integrity and spectacular style.

In this body of work there is less of the mild-mannered, gentle Stewart Bremner, and more of the spontaneity, urgency and even aggression that help to make him the man he is.  Yet the sensitivity and fragility of this artist is also there for all to see between the lines and the mark making.  I believe that it is this combination that has so affected those who have seen the work.

Take a look at this:

'Adrift' (detail), mixed media, by Stewart Bremner.
Now that's what I call a serious example of 'physical' painting: the artist is throwing his heart and soul into the work.  When I look at Stewart Bremner's work I can feel that energy 'bleeding' off the walls.

Rumour has it that behind closed doors, in that place of difficult negotiation and sanctuary that is Stewart's studio, he falls into some sort of trance when he works.  I'm sure it would be both enthralling and somewhat unnerving to watch, but perhaps some things are just too private.  Sometimes, it's best to leave a little of the magic to the imagination.

Speak soon.

Worlds Apart

Get ready.....

and.....

BOOM!

'Worlds Apart' opens on Thursday 5th.

See you then.

The Boys are (almost) Back in Town.

Hello everyone

So at the gorgeous Cathy Campbell exhibition gently winds to an end, and the familiar pangs of anxiety creep in at the thought of taking the paintings down, I am much comforted by the knowledge that the next month will see Union Gallery host the works of 2 inspirational talents.
Ladies and gentlemen.....introducing: "The Boys!"

The month of April will see 2 extraordinary worlds collide in the form of artists Stewart Bremner and Kevin Low and I for one am very excited.

Now, I am well known for my cack-handed skills with the camera, bit in this photo I have excelled myself by managing to snap the only section of artist Kevin Low's portfolio......or perhaps it's a deliberate ploy to get you to come along and see his work for real. Trust me, you wont be disappointed.
And here is the other half in this spectacular show, who some of you regular gallery goers will recognise:

The wonderful Stewart Bremner who, as I think this photo shows, is feeling the strain of working like a demon on the the Worlds Apart exhibition. A bow to you both gentlemen. The fruits of your labour are looking fantastic and will be ready for all to see on Thursday 5th.
You'd be an April Fool to miss out on this one!
Speak soon.

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.

Various Visitors

Hello everyone

Just thought we'd share with you some snaps of some of the lovely artists who have been in to UG in the last week.
We should kick off with this:

This is Joyce Gunn Cairns MBE.  We are starting with Joyce because her work is going to make a serious splash next week in our new exhibition 'Head to Head' which opens on Thursday.  Joyce's work had been in the gallery for just five minutes and it was already attracting a lot of attention....you must see it!

This is the lovely Henry Kondracki who has been very busy finishing off various commissions for some very happy new owners.  Well done, Henry.

The charming 'Adams Family'.  This is James Newton Adams and co. enjoying a holiday from their home on the Isle of Skye.  We are excited about seeing more work from James in January 2012.  We will keep you posted.

Here is the brilliant Stewart Bremner's back.  Stewart has been helping out a lot at UG recently (thanks, S!), and here he is installing the camera to make the 'Now We Are Two' opening video.  Is no limit to his creative talents?
And this:

Richard Demarco, Alison Auldjo and Stewart Bremner enjoyed an interesting chat in the gallery the other day....
Et Enfin:

Beautiful artist Imogen Alabaster delivering a truly magical painting featuring some frogs at the special request a lovely French couple.  They are delighted.

Au revoir, mes amis

Various Visitors

Hello eveyone


I've been raking through some photos stored on my blueberry so thought I would show you some of the lovely people who have been through UG's door.
As it's the final week of Janet Melrose's solo exhibition it seems fitting that we start with the lady herself:

Janet popped in to over see some of the dot action: seen here not in those 'famous' dungarees. There's still time to come in and see what everyone is talking about. Thank you, Janet, for a truly magnificent show and for all your hard work.
We also recently enjoyed the company of arts writer and journalist Jan Patience who wrote the a very fine foreword to Janet's catalogue. Unfortunately I reverted to my 'old style' photography and managed to chop off part of her head (apologies Jan), so no photo here!
You can however, see what Jan looks like here:

www.janpatienceblogspot.com

Speaking of chopping off heads....

This is award winning artist Joyce Gunn Cairns MBE in her, at the time, tranquil studio. Joyce's studio is more frantic now as she finalises her exceptional work for our 'Head to Head' exhibition in July. I've been lucky enough to have been given a preview of the heads in question and am looking forward to seeing them on the walls.
Next up:

I also recently enjoyed the unexpected company of artists Stewart Bremner and Trevor Jones. Now Stewart looks rather apprehensive in this photo as he was about to over come his fear of flying to go to the States to participate in a collaborative exhibition with abstract artist Megan Chapman. Stewart Bremner has been incrediby busy of late and I look forward to his safe return and welcoming him, Megan, and his new work next week.

Dashing Mr Jones attempts to disguise himsef as a wine bottle. Discussions are in place over a ground breaking abstract exhibition to be held next year.
Last, but by no means least:

Ladies and gentlemen.....introducing the phenominal artist Norrie Harman.
Norrie Harman trained at ECA and is now based in Leeds, however I am extremely pleased to report that we will be lucky enough to see his work return to Edinburgh in July. If you look closely you can see a very cool tattoo of a greyhound on his wrist. Of course, he is a very cool individual himself.

I'm looking forward to receiving more various visitors over the coming weeks.

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.

Seen and Heard It All?

I don't think so......


Trevor Jones at Union Gallery from stewart bremner on Vimeo.

Highlights from the opening of Trevor Jones's exhibition.Fantastic video care of Stewart Bremner. Love the wonky music for the hanging....very appropriate.
It was such a great night!

And this:
http://www.lothianlife.co.uk/2010/11/another-first-for-trevor-jones/

Come in to see (and hear) what all the excitement is about.

An Explosion of Colour!

Howdy partners and greetings to our latest blog follower....as always we shall do our best to amaze and astound you.

So I am waiting for technical wizard Stewart Bremner to finish the video of artist Trevor Jones's opening the other night. I can't wait! It was a fantastic night with a real celebratory feel, well attended and some excellent feedback. Thanks to all who attended and made it such a special night.

It's an interesting and unique exhibition with a musical twist. It's also very colourful......the perfect fix for a drab and gloomy November. So if you fancy doing something fun and rewarding then please come in for a visit. You can have a laugh at me trying to operate an MP,C3PO player.

Speaking of which:

I had to laugh at this. Lovely artist Stewart Bremner left me fool proof instructions on how to operate the camera. Very dutiful and GREATLY appreciated!

Leaving you with this:

"Synaesthesia II" opening 04.11.10.
Here's a wee snap of the night until the video arrives. The master of abstract, Trevor Jones, is pictured in the white shirt.

Speak soon x
http://www.broughtonspurtle.org.uk/news/tracks-colour-union-gallery

Autumn Watch II

Howdy partners!

So Autumn has well and truly taken hold and with today being a particularly windy day here in Edinburgh, I have enjoyed watching all the golden leaves dancing along the pavements and footpaths.

If you need an inspirational fix this week, I highly recommend you come in and see "Landmarks II"....it's the last week and I believe this to be one of our most beautiful exhibitions to date.

Here is a little tempter:

"Seilebost Rain" by Beth Robertson Fiddes.
This is a really special piece, again there's some collage work that you can't pick out from this jpeg. You have to see the real thing to appreciate it fully.

More comings and goings at Union Gallery of late:

A working lunch. All round creative giant Stewart Bremner (paintings, photography, websites and videos!) pops in to coach me on how to make a beetroot curry.....I have specific instructions. Surely even I cannot mess this up?!
Leaving you with this:

Yes, it's scary season again so if you visit the gallery over the weekend we shall be offering some pretty terrifying treats. That's right partners...my very own home baking!!!

Speak soon

Bottles, bottles everywhere!

Hello everyone

Yes, I have been know to partake of an occassional swallete myself.
However, I must stress that only two of the above bottles were my own doing. Last night we had a fabulous time hosting the opening of the Ella Novo Loco exhibition by award winning artist Derek McGuire.

Those who attended were not dissapointed and the general reaction was one of amazement. Yes, this really is a special exhibition and if you want to see some truly remarkable paintings this month, there's only one place to be.

All in all a great night. Enough vino to sink a destroyer, red wine up the walls, spot of dancing and red dots. What more could you ask for?

Again the joyous occassion was captured by our own Stewart Bremner (HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU SIR) and you can watch it here.....

Special prize to the first person who can tell me how many bottles were drank!

Union Gallery – Derek McGuire preview from stewart bremner on Vimeo.

Have a great weekend all

Bring on the BIG GUNS!

Hello everyone

And a warm welcome to our latest follower.

Just wanted to let you see a few "behind the scene" photos of what's all been going on at Union Gallery during the Edinburgh Festival.
The long awaited arrival:

The evening before the opening of the festival exhibition, sculptor extraordinaire John Brazenall (background) delivers his amazing "pop guns". Rob has a dangerous aim.

"Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde" by John Brazenall.
Not only is the idea behind these pieces quite brilliant, they are exquisitely executed. The patina finish on the handle of Mr Hyde is absolutely gorgeous. I think it looks like rich walnut. I should also point out that each gun is 1 of 1. That's right people, a ONE OFF CASTING, totally unique!!
They have also created a bit of a stir in the gallery. A few of you have "popped" in to see the pieces. I would encourage you all to come in and have a "shot".
As these chaps have done:

and

Cute. Just so you know, John Brazenall for many years has worked as the chosen fine art bronze founder for the likes of Ian Hamilton Finlay and Julian Schnabel. However, we were interested in John's own work and what he had to offer....sure enough, rather a lot!
Photography of sculpture is always tricky and lucky for us, wonderful Stewart Bremner saved the day again:

Shot on shot. Stewart photographing John Brazenall's "Self Portrait as a Bunh of Tulips".
Just to prove that I have a sense of humour (now and again) I too had a "shot" of the pop guns:

Deadly! Another brilliant image care of Stewart.
Please note that it appears that I am the only one with a decent aim!

Come in to view this exhibition by some of the finest artists living and working in Edinburgh today. You will not be dissapointed.
Time to pop off
x

Action!

Hello eveyone

Thought you might like a look at this fabulous video. It's by my new partner in crime Stewart Bremner.
I spot of behind the scenes action and subsequent opening night....a lot of wine was enjoyed!

I would also like to invite you all along to a talk by award winning artist Philip Braham. He will be telling us as bit more about the inspirations and influences behind his stunning "Drift" series of paintings.
This Thursday 6pm. Dont miss it.



Snapshots in the life of a gallery from stewart bremner on Vimeo.

Momentous Moments

Hi All

So July has been a momentous month for Union Gallery, not only has the amazing Dylan Lisle and Patsy McArthur Exhibition been a huge success, but a lot more has been going on besides.
To celebrate our month of milestones, we had a wee party on Saturday:

As you can see, much fun was had by all.....

As well as much debate

And serious discussion on the exceptional merits of the two fabulous painters on display.

There are still 5 days to come and see the exhibition, and I can't recommend a visit to Union Gallery enough to those who have not yet managed to make it.  Both Dylan and Patsy are becoming so successful that the likelyhood of seeing them exhibiting together again is extremely small, and this may be a rare opportunity to see such a large body of work from either artist for some time. I can guarantee that if you make the trip to Broughton Street in the next few days, you will be rewarded with an exhibition of exceptional quality and craft: a real feast for the senses.

Here's a couple of images to remind you of what you will be seeing:

'Before the Show' by Dylan Lisle

'The Open Road' by  Patsy McArthur

And one final look at the party on Saturday, where even the kids were overwhemed by the show:
You may have noticed the huge improvement on the photography front. Having accepted I'm useless with a camera, these brilliant snaps were taken care of snap happy wizzard Stewart Bremner.