Happy Snaps II

Hello everyone

Greetings to our new blog follower Peter (& Fly the dog!) who's adventures you can read about here:

http://pedsoutdoordiary.blogspot.co.uk/

I thought I'd just share a few more shots of the Mark Of Beauty, MOB, opening from 07.08.12 as they are bright and colourful and make me smile:

John McLean's 'Acrobat' glows in the evening sun.

Artist Trevor Jones with his latest paintings and charming gallery visitor.

The lovely artist Iain Robertson in front of his painting, 'One'.
And leaving you with this as it really makes me smile:

Abstract giant John Mclean leaves handy tips on how to hang his painting.
Well, you can't be too careful can you!

Speak soon x

Mark Of Beauty

This Festival sees the arrival of a MOB to the city.

With a riot of colour!

See you soon........

Brothers in Arms II

Hello everyone,

We have some more insightful words about Alison Auldjo's solo exhibition, Gone to Earth, from those in the know.  Firstly from brilliant abstract artist Trevor Jones:

'Rarely, if ever, has a great gallery owner also been a great artist. Check out the latest exhibition @UNIONgallery1 - Alison Auldjo has pulled out all the stops and put on an absolutely stunning and inspiring show. Congrats to Alison and also to the Union Gallery for breaking all the rules!'

'Run and Hide', oil on canvas, by Alison Auldjo

And secondly, Glasgow painter Annette Edgar simply says: 'Visual poetry'.

I couldn't have put it better myself, many thanks to you both.

If you haven't made it along to see Alison's stunning exhibition yet, you really should......
  

 

Get Rhythm

Hello everyone

Sadly the soggy Scottish summer time is letting us down. However, it's nice and dry and bright and colourful in Union Gallery. It's also free and inspiring to visit, so feel free to drop by anytime.

I promised to shed more light on multi-award winning artist Colin Brown, so here goes:

I first viewed Colin's work in December last year at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Glasgow. Not every artist can claim to have had their work shown in such a prestigious setting! The exhibition was titled "The River Runs Through It" and was the brain child and curated by artist Charles Jamieson MFA, PAI, PPAI and journalist and art lover Jan Patience, and I was very keen to see it as the ethos and spirit of the show and artists involved captured my imagination. The aim of "The River Runs Through It" was to generate interest and funding for the Riverside Museum Appeal. I felt it was also a celebration of heritage and culture and an exhibition not just of beauty, but of historical importance. The new transport museum, designed by architect Zaha Hadid, opens today (the longest day) and I will certainly be going for a look at some point.
There were many great artists involved including Ruth A Nicol, Adrian Wiszniewski, Annette Edgar, and of course Colin Brown.
I have to admit that Colin's work hit me right between the eyes. I had never seen anything like it before - or since.
Here is an example:

"Salon", acrylic and collage on wood panel by Colin Brown.

What hit me most was the outpouring of information. This information overload both excited and captivated me and I thought it very in tune with our modern day living. Yet at the same time, Colin Brown has been developing his wholly unique/distinctive/original style since the 1980's. After the initial excitement and experience of viewing Colin's work, there is no escaping how brilliantly engineered and constructed they are. The 'information overload' all makes perfect sense, the layers of thought are painstakingly cohesive and it's obvious that Colin, who begins making these paintings by experimenting with ideas, leaves nothing to chance once he is in the groove. To me, I liken Colin's work to composing a brilliant piece of music...there is rhythm, colour and texture and, like any outstanding composition, it will remain a classic:

"Gabriel", acrylic and collage on wood panel by Colin Brown.

You can experience Colin Brown's work in Union Gallery's "Now We Are Two" exhibition alongside Stewart Bremner, Trevor Jones, Olivia Irvine and Jenny Matthews.

Speak soon

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.

VARIOUS VISITORS II

Hello everyone

On Saturday I was blessed with the unexpected, yet very welcome company of some of the talented artists that are partners at UNIONgallery. A perk of the job:) Some even bearing gifts!
First in was award winning artist and egg tempera expert Olivia Irvine:

Thank you Olivia for the perfectly gessoed board. Your generous gesture will be seen again in a new life.
I was delighted to tell Olivia that a representative form Stirling University had visited to see her new work. Stirling University have an original Olivia Irvine in their collection...they have a good eye.
Also, it transpires that we are both somewhat vexed that we missed out of the following little treasure:

"Carousel Horse". Oil & Beeswax on Board by Derek McGuire.
'If you snooze you lose'. A wise phrase that rings in my ears, and Olivia's, evertime I look at this image. Geez.

Next Up:

Abstract artist Trevor Jones (aka dashing Mr Jones) and the deadly talented Dylan Lisle, openly expose my penchant for chocolate.

Who says Yorkies aren't for girls? Nonsense!
Last, but by no means least:

The lovely Homoky family topped off the day with artist Laura Homoky looking as radiant as ever. Aparently Laura sparkled at the recent SSA opening. Best wishes for your second child who will be arriving very soon!
I had been expecting the company of award winning artist David Hosie. However, he was delayed. I believe he may visit today. There's more to come on David Hosie soon. Until then I will leave you with another encouraging image:

They're my heroes!

Speak soon

Last Request? Last Chance

Hello everyone

Welcome to our lastest blog followers.....just wait 'till you see what's coming next!

So the dark and gloomy month of November was successfully fought off by the sheer joy that is Trevor Jones' exhibition, "Synaesthesia II". I have enjoyed every minute of it....even the learning to use the scary MCP3O players! It's good to challenge oneself. However, what I have enjoyed the most has been the reaction of all the amazing visitors who have been in to view this work. It is often said that abstract art is not for everyone, but it seems that Trevor's masterful use of colour and skillful compositions simply delight people. I understand why.

I have also relised something else quite special: having spent nearly a whole month with these paintings in the gallery, I am the lucky person who has spent more time with them than anyone else - even Trevor. It's been an intense process for him, and it's a shame that he has not been allowed the luxury of time to fully appreciate all his hard work - such is the way for artists. So, lucky me! I have been able to spend lots of time with them, and yet I know that I have only scatched the surface of what these paintings have to offer. I am very happy for all of those who have secured one of  Trevor's paintings....they just keep giving.

So, this weekend is the LAST CHANCE to come and see (and hear)  "Synaesthesia II", I cannot recommend it highly enough.

Leaving you with this:

Trevor taking a contemplative moment, spending a little time with something that is essentially part of him.

Speak soon....

A Great View

Hello everyone,

So here is another video clip of the opening night of Trevor Jones' solo exhibition 'Synaesthesia II', currently running at Union Gallery.  There are some fab close-up's of some of the paintings here too, so it's well worth a look.  There are just 10 days left to view this amazing exhibition....if you can find the time, I strongly recommend it.


Have a good weekend...

http://www.facebook.com/#!/video/video.php?v=461595861430&oid=123541490817&comments

Impressive Vessel!

Hello everyone

Just wanted to bring your attention to this:

An 18C Imperial chinese Vase that Bainbridges sold a couple of days ago for a WHOPPING £51.6m (including commission).  That's a world record price for a Chinese wprk of art. To be fair, it's a very pretty vase, and I think it's almost as nice as Union Gallery's 'ugly jug':

Union Gallery's ugly/beautiful vase.....maker unknown
Although ours has authentic cracks and everything!
 As we all know, the Chinese economy is rocketing at the moment and collectors are very keen to repatriate important works....it's their history and culture.

Anyway, if, like me, you don't have a spare £51.6m kicking around, but you still like stunning creamics or glassware, then we have the answer:

  














"Flat Pack Bird Cage" by Jessica Irena Smith......a demi-fraction of the price for the Impressive Vessel and just as lovely.

EQUALLY IMPORTANT, you still have 16 days to come in and see (and hear) the Trevor Jones "Synaesthesia II" exhibition - and I can promise you it's well worth it.  I might even share a glass of Irn Bru with you, served in my Faberge glasses.
(Oh, and if any of you reading this can shed some light on the elusive Auldjo Vase, and help me reclaim my inheritance as Italian Nobility, you'll get extra Irn Bru)

Have a great weekend. 

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

LAST REQUEST!

Hello everyone - and greetings to latest blog follower.

So Union Gallery will be closed for the next couple of days in preperation of:

"Last Request" by Trevor Jones from his exhibition "Synaethesia II". This painting is inspired by the music of Paolo Nutini.

TIP. If you can manage to lose a couple of pounds between now and Thursday, I suggest you do.....interest is high and it's going to be PACKED!

See you all Thursday......

Sounds like a visual feast

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Published Date: 03 November 2010

AN exhibition of work based on the songs of Paolo Nutini and Biffy Clyro is to go on display at the Union Gallery.

Artist Trevor Jones's exhibition, entitled Synaesthesia II, explores the sensory connection between music and colour from tomorrow.

Mr Jones said: "There's been a profound increase in research into synaesthesia (the phenomenon of "seeing" sounds] the last few decades and I was compelled to begin my own artistic investigation. To add another dimension to the exhibition we're providing MP3 players with the relevant songs."

Something New at UG

We are always on the lookout for new and different sculpture for the gallery.  I have especially been trying to find some really high quality glass work to display.  There is a lot of blown glass around, but I was looking for something a bit special, and I am really pleased to be able to say I have found it.

Jessica Irena Smith is a young glass sculptor from County Durham who has been introduced to us by artist Trevor Jones.  Having seen images of her work online, I knew we were looking as something special and, when she came in this week to show us her work, that was confirmed.  Jessica casts her glass bases in a kiln, using the ancient lost wax process.  Without going into excessive detail, this is very similar to the process of making a bronze sculpture, although somewhat more risky as you are working with glass.  To put things into perspective, a larger sculpture like 'Large Sheep Column', below, lives in the kiln for fully 6 days to ensure that the piece cools evenly and therefore not creating stresses in the glass.



















The glass is then hand finished, to create a perfect, smooth, beautiful finish, and then the small cast bronze scultures are added.  Jessica has the lovely little bronzes cast for her by a specialist foundry in Birmingham, and then hand finishes them herself.

So you end up with a sculpture of charm and humour, created with real craft and real perserverence.  The sheep are Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep which look somewhat similar to goats.  A trip to the Rockies, seeing these lovely beasts in their natural environment, proved to be the inspiration. 

We have 3 different examples of the series: the Large Sheep Column, above, and:

Small Sheep Column (a trio), and:

the brillant Wall of Sheep

The detail in the work, along with the quality of the finish, is really astounding.  You only have to look at Jessica's working drawings, which she has been kind enough to share with us, to get an idea of the toil and the creative process that is required to produce such beautiful figures:



I love these sketches... they are fun, but they also tell you quite a bit about the thought process and the work that goes into creating these sculptures.

I can't wait to see more of her work next year.