.

I'm back!

2012-02-12T07:57:00.000Z

'Such a relief!!'.. I'm back in my studio after a major, necessary, incredibly stressful and unplanned break.
However the job is done... and to start the ball rolling I thought I'd capture the current state of play at home... It's been snowing!! The first icy cold blast of 2012. I've not really been that fussed about snow scenes, I think I enjoy light and warmth too much. However this was captured as the first snow was arriving. The light was quite sinister ... So, a spontaneous effort and one to get me back in the swing of things.

Acrylic on panel

On matters of the art...

2012-02-05T07:56:00.000Z

Friends, Romans, country folk, commissioners, art buyers and dealers.
‘Lend me your eyes.’

It has been mentioned... there have been enquiries... and people have noticed ‘my lack of input to this blog and other matters of the art.’
It’s true, ‘I have been quiet’... Since last Autumn there has been a succession of events that quite frankly have ‘tripped me up’ consumed much of brain space and extraordinary amounts of my personal time. So 'being creative' has had to been put on the back burner. I’ve discovered that a constipated cerebral muscle and attempting to paint, draw and be merry is an utterly, utterly useless process. The good news is the necessary laxative has been administered and the flushing process is well underway.

However and paradoxically I have actually been very very busy dealing with matters ‘family.‘ It’s been a truly exhausting and disruptive process but this oil tanker size problem has nearly turned... and I'm pleased to announce that, there is light, there is clarity and very soon I shall return to my business and have things up and running.

I wish to apologise to my clients whose commissions I had to refer or cancel, to the events I should have attended but ‘simply couldn’t’ but I appreciated the invites and please keep them coming... and to the folk I normally see, ‘I shall be back in town very soon.’ And a ‘thank you’ to those who have been helping me out along the way on this uncomfortable journey.

Back in the studio preparations are underway for the spring and summer ahead.. I have been painting but not with the intensity I usually have, though strangely enough the new work has an edge and depth that is very very pleasing... perhaps the break and disruption has done me some good.

Something fruity

2012-01-13T17:00:00.001Z

Rocha and Bowl... A natty new frame for a long time favourite piece of mine.
It's recently found a lovely new home.

All is calm

2012-01-10T12:25:00.001Z

A new piece for my up and coming show, 'whilst walking by water'
Title: Bright light, shore to shore. (Pitsford)
Acrylic, ketchup, john innes no3, palette knife and pencil on board.

Found and studied

2012-01-05T12:09:00.001Z

Found No1
Crab apple and hand made bowl
20x20cm

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T15:05:00.005Z

Blimey another year gone but a real bright one ahead! Can't wait for the longer, lighter evenings.

I've been very busy recently and there's plenty going on in the studio for a spring showing orf.
During he past few weeks I've been walking by water again... There's not really a great deal of it in deepest Northamptonshire, though we do have one or two little places of loveliness. Pictured above (fresh off the easel) is one such place, Pitsford reservoir. We're currently enduring a drought. which is most unseasonal for December. The water line has dramatically changed the perspective of the landscape and it seems rather distant. There's also a beautiful green algae hue draped over the shoreline. There's still plenty of wildlife of course and huge skies to enjoy. I do sense this may well be the start of my first project of the year.
Keep your eyes peeled.

Strolling along the beach again..

2011-12-07T14:02:00.003Z

Oh, I do love to sit beside the seaside.

Was here last week...cold though!

Acrylic on panel /

Image size 40x40,

Frame 50x50cm

Ink drawings

2011-12-04T13:34:00.000Z

Resting...
Pen and ink...Nov/Dec 2011

On reflection...

2011-11-25T15:45:00.000Z

I've little to say today other than I'm painting well and earnestly.

The piece above is a comfort blanket.
Life offers many challenges and distractions and when I've
'had enough' I rest here, where the horizon dissolves... and so does my brain.

It's a peaceful place and totally inspiring in a wild wild way.

Resting place version 1
acrylic on panel 254 x 203 mm
but soon to be painted much much bigger!

2012 olympics

2011-11-18T10:56:00.000Z

Some sketches from a recent visit to Welshland visiting Mum.

Pat has always been a willing model for my drawings.. nowadays she's even more willing as she prepares for the 2012 Olympics. Having recently taking up sleeping as her new hobby... and it has to be said, 'excelling in it'... she's in the running for a place in the 'Sleepyiad.'

Nominated in two events.... Duration sleeping and the Loud snoring event.
I have never heard an ol lady snore with such conviction and gusto! For me, a sure fire medal winner!

Pen, ink on paper

Fredrick the great!

2011-11-15T13:35:00.001Z

Met this fella the other day.
What a talent and a thoroughly nice chap too!

We even had a kind visit from our Mayor who popped into say hello......
As you can see Fred is quite a celebrity draw with a big smile and a bright future.

Right...said Fred!

2011-11-08T17:24:00.001Z

Tomorrow is an exciting day for me... a new crop of young talented artists are nipping at me ankles and number one in the cue is Fred.
I'm very much looking forward to meeting him. I've been looking at his excellent oil paintings and I'm hoping he can let in a few of his 'tricks of the trade' and help 'up my game.'

A special meet has been arranged... 'schhh though, it's a secret.'

But I'll be brushing me boots and washing behind my ears in anticipation... you just never know whose gonna turn up!

More soon...

Thank yous, prizes, and information...

2011-11-08T09:20:00.003Z

Seemingly quiet on the blog I know.... Though there’s been much going on behind the scenes...and lots still happening and it’s all rather disruptive, yet exciting too!
However and briefly... My summer exhibition during July and August was a huge success and I’m delighted with it all. Thank you to everyone who helped make it a fun and successful event and a really really big thank you to all that attended, purchased and to those who sent me such positive messages about the exhibition, ‘they really do lift the spirits.’

During September my ‘Open Studios’ event proved to be a fun and busy couple of weekends... undoubtedly the busiest on record for me and many visitors travelled from far flung places to come and have a peek.... Much cake was scoffed, wine and coffee quaffed and suffice to say the gallery carpets worn out!

The Open Studios Central Exhibition in Northampton was a lovely affair, with varied work from participating artists ...and a thank you to The sponsors Colemans Group Stationers who graced me with a third prize in their awards presentation.

This October, I’ve had the good fortune to have had 2 paintings selected for the Northamptonshire Town and County Art Society... This is the first time I’ve offered work forward for selection and lucky ol me has won a prize....
I’m a ‘New talent’ prize winner.... ok ok, it’s new talent for new entrants to the society.
And I know it’s got a touch of a ‘X Factor’ ring to it....but...... anyway..... I’m thrilled and chuffed to be singled out thank you very much to The Primrose Gallery in Northampton for the Prize.

As for the day to day stuff, well there’s new work going on ( Stocks need replenishing) and I’m planning for next year already... The palette is calmer for the year 2012, the imagery is more abstracted and hopefully more plein air involved.

However, you can currently see my work at:
Forge 2 Gallery in Culworth, Oxfordshire OX17 2BA
a beautiful village location for this smashing gallery.... work is on display and for sale (while stocks last) until 24th December 2011
Wednesday - Saturday 10am-4pm
(Check out the shop and scoff days... well worth getting fat for!)

and...
A special weekend of treats in store at
Fosse House Gallery, Swinford Leicestershire LE17 6AU
18th-20th November 2011
Friday 5-9pm Sat / Sun 10am-5pm

and also at..
the Museum and Gallery, Guildhall Road in Northampton until 10th December 2011
A mixed show of very talented regional artists... It’s well worth a look and lots for sale.

I have been felled..

2011-10-11T20:09:00.000+01:00

Cough cough cough....feeling utterly cack... cough cough cough...... but at least Wales are wining in the rugby:-) and I'm listening to two utterly fantastic new discs.. Lisa Hannigan and Paper Aeroplanes.. Strangely enough Irish and Welsh....magical music to paint too! And when I have the energy and my lungs allow and my back doesn't ache and my head is clear, cough cough cough... much news of goings on..... in the art world......cough cough cough... will omit soon..cough cough.....cough!

Prize draw...

2011-09-12T08:22:00.003+01:00

We Have a winner...

Congratulations to Ms V Hall of Kettering..... Who has won the prize draw for the framed canvas print of 'allium allure.'

Thank you to all who entered the competition.... and keep your eyes peeled there just may well be a Christmas stocking filler lined up!

Keeping you up to date...

2011-09-07T21:11:00.001+01:00

NEWS UPDATE

My studio / gallery will be open for perusal, sales and natter once again this Friday - Sunday
Noon until 5pm. Do come along, coffee, cake and some nice paintings will be available while stocks last!
(Above are some images of this years show)

And...

My solo exhibition at The Alfred East Gallery during July and August was well received... Thank you to all who took the time to go and have a look, also to those who made comments, who sent me positive messages and who came over, stopped me dead or tripped me up to say nice things... and to the people who shelled out to purchase my work in these challenging times, 'thank you all very very much indeed.'

And...

...My painting 'Sea, Stack and Sky' took third place in the Coleman Group sponsored Central Exhibition launch for the Open Studios in Northampton (Thank you very much once again...)

And...

...In October I will be showing new work at Forge 2 Gallery in the lovely village of Culworth. A smashing 'selling gallery' full of quirky ceramics, sculpture, books, cards and paintings...and if you get there on a good day, stonking coffee and cake for free! It also benefits from being located in some lovely countryside and boats some beautiful National Trust properties nearby.
'So, a cool day out!'

Suffice to say...

I'm really looking forward to this weekend's Open event... I've been taking part in the Northants OS Festival for many many years and it has been without doubt an amazingly successful and fun time for me. I really enjoy making the effort for visitors to come and say hello, share some time and check out the artwork. However, I've decided to give next year's event a rest... and concentrate on other projects for the time being.

So why not pop in this weekend, there will be some nice deals on offer, maybe even a bargain bucket and your last chance to enjoy my September OS for a couple of years at least.

Best
C

Northamptonshire Open Studios 2011...

2011-09-06T08:16:00.001+01:00

The first weekend of the Open studio has been a great success.
Lots of visitors, many of whom travelled a fair distance to come and say hello. This was surprising in itself with the weather being so volatile.... it's like monsoon season here! Once again the carrot cake has gone down well and is getting far more attention than my artwork. Saying that my pooch is getting a lot of attention too... 'and I sense I'm establishing an inferiority complex!'

My second weekend of OS commences this Friday, Saturday and Sunday...noon until 5pm.
I'll also be announcing the winner of my prize draw for the canvas print of 'allium allure.'
So watch this space.

Northampton Museum and Art Gallery

2011-08-24T08:30:00.000+01:00

I'll be showing a new piece of artwork at the Museum and art gallery, Guildhall Street in Northampton. It'll be nestled amongst a group show demonstrating the creative offerings of those taking part in the visual arts festival.

My painting 'Sea, Stack and Sky' is a painting inspired from one of my meanderings around the Welsh coastline near St Davids.

Title: Sea, Stack and Sky
30x30 cm plus frame...
Acrylic on panel

OPEN STUDIOS 2011.......

2011-08-23T22:13:00.000+01:00

The 'Open Studio' visual arts festival is upon us once again in Northamptonshire. A couple of weekends are shared with the public to trade thoughts, time and artwork, along with natter and a cuppa ...or if you time it just right.. 'something more grapey!' There's a 115 listings in this years brochure ...and I guess featuring over 180 artists involved all told. So much to research, discover and enjoy should you be inclined.

I'll be showing some new paintings along with recent works in my garden studio gallery here in Loddington.... so come do come along and join in the fun.

I'll also be announcing the result of my prize draw at some point on 11th September.... 'so if you're quick you can add your name to the draw and have chance to win a signed Giclee canvas print!'

Through the barricades...

2011-08-14T08:12:00.004+01:00

As I write ...there's just ten days left of my first solo show at the Alfred East Gallery.. Things have gone very well indeed and I'm a very happy boy! There's plenty to see so if you get the chance or are 'plain ol nosy'...go and haveaganda!

However, there is much building improvement going on outside. The new public realm which is soon to look stupendous is well underway, so battle through the barricades. It'll be worth it!

Another event looming in September is The Northamptonshire Open studios. I take part in this and it's always great fun. You get the chance to view my paintings and some of my illustration work, have a cuppa a nibble of cake have a natter and the opportunity to purchase paintings , prints, greeting cards or simply pop in and say hello and throw a stick for the dog!

I'll be open on the days of 3 - 4th September and also 9, 10 and 11th September. Noon - 5pm

My work will also be popping up here and there at other venues across the county during September... More news in the coming days about that!

Positive stuff... at The Alfred East

2011-07-26T14:58:00.003+01:00

Hello

Just briefly, I want to say 'thank you very much' for the encouraging and positive words about my solo exhibition via phone, email and newspaper. It's most unexpected but very very welcome.

Thank you to you all...

Chris

A Royal visit...

2011-07-16T08:25:00.002+01:00

It's been a busy week.... and the crowning glory has been the official visit from The Queen mum....well 'my mum.' It's a 400 mile round trip for this dashing 83 year old to come and inspect my arrangement of canvas, paint and timber.
"I got the thumbs up!"

Mrs P is the lady who blessed me with the skills that have pushed me thus far, and for that (and many other things) I'm very grateful .... suffice to say 'Mums happy with the show' ( if she's happy.. 'I'm happy') and she even laughed at her portrait...

Today marks the end of week one of my six week exhibition .... Thank you to the people who have left positive and encouraging comments. They really are appreciated. Sales have been fantastic too... and I'm really delighted about that!

Next week I'm back to the drawing board and the easel preparing for the Open Studio Arts festival in September... It's a great event and I'm looking forward to it.
More news on that soon.

c

'of Land and Sea...Exposed!'

2011-07-12T06:20:00.001+01:00

Thank you to all that popped in to say hello on the 9th.....
'quite overwhelming to be honest..but such fun!

'of Land and Sea' ...'and what a surprise!'

2011-07-10T14:10:00.000+01:00

Dear All
Yesterday at the Alfred East Art Gallery was the preview of my exhibition 'Of Land and Sea'

And blimey.... "What a gathering!"

I wish to thank the collectors, guests and visitors who took the time to come and say hello.
It was the most fantastic turn out..and I have to admit it was quite a shock... In no way did I expected the numbers that appeared.... and stayed..... and purchased.... and laughed......and nattered... 'It was brilliant!'

In the coming days I'll collect my thoughts and with the aid of some pictures I'll illustrate what a great afternoon it was.

However, for now, I just wish to thank everybody who came along and made it such a magical afternoon.

Chris

Progress report...

2011-07-05T21:06:00.004+01:00

New exhibition preview

2011-07-03T20:14:00.000+01:00

I thought I'd offer a pre-preview of my new exhibition which kicks off on Saturday 9th July.

Enveloped in miles and miles of bubble wrap and ready to be transported to the gallery the picture above shows the current state of play.

I'm hoping it'll look a lot better when it's hanging on the walls this week.

Though I'm expecting a final edit of the work this week..there will be 40+ new pieces on display.

Very excited now...should look really good. Keep your eyes peeled!

I've had one of my moments...

2011-06-08T15:27:00.002+01:00

I've been dreaming.. it's the lovely weather I guess. Dappled light, highlights and shadow. Very impressionistic stylee stuff indeed.
So, to celebrate 'the moment' I mutated into
Pissarro Prout....who'd have guessed it eh?

Union Wharf
50x50cm
acrylic on canvas

at last...

2011-05-27T22:01:00.004+01:00

As of this fine evening and as the sun sets a chilly breeze meanders around ones neither regions a digital miracle has been born... His name www.chrisproutart.com was propelled into this crazy cyberspace after many, many months of painful labour.

My advice to others is opt for artificial insemination and a surrogate parent..Why do I write, paint, design and worry when I should hand the work over to an organised, straight lined web person?
I'm all full of curves maybe, not shapeless but not straight lines either...

So, here we are, still in it's infancy and currently a 'work in progress' it should give one an insight to the workings and undoings of theartistinformallyknownasProut.

More to show soon!

Remember www.chrisproutart.com

And 'a free prize draw' coming soon... Win a giclee canvas print of 'Allium Allure 50x50cm' ...keep your peepers peeled.

I wish to announce an engagement...

2011-05-26T15:07:00.000+01:00

Painting is an unsettling process. It's often effected by mood and the position of the moon let alone the sun. I've always the compulsion to 'want to create' and it's generally fun, often irritating, maddening even!.....

Occasionally there are times when the paint flies of the knife with the greatest of ease, each gesture on the canvas sings and one just feels alrighty with the World.

This picture is one of those gestures, where there's 'total engagement' of mind, body and palette knife, working seamlessly together like ol buddies and without the nagging doubt lurking in the grey matter... 'is this good enough?'

I like it...it's for me.

After the rain
Acrylic on canvas 30x30cm using a knife, various cerebral parts, shoulder, arm, digits and good will...

Art@ Sudborough 2011

2011-05-23T21:01:00.001+01:00

This forthcoming weekend I shall be showing work here:

Art@ Sudborough 2011

Saturday 28 Sunday 29 and Monday 30th May 2011

All Saints Church
Sudborough
Northamptonshire.
NN14 3BX

11AM -6PM

A plethora of paintings, drawings sculpture, glass and jewellery...prints and cards too... in this beautiful setting.

I’m delighted to one of the selected artists to display my work at this truly excellent exhibition.

This is a great event and benefits from having The Vane Arms Public House just 30 yards away... An excellent pub with grub and “real” ales...and to cap it all.....the outstanding 'Old Rectory Gardens is just next door. 'For me'...."Better than Chelsea!"

So a fun day out and I'll be displaying some new work fresh from the easel and some natty prints also.

Painting
Walking at Whitesands
Acrylic on canvas
30x40cm+frame

Keep an eye out...

2011-05-18T16:40:00.003+01:00

There's progress on my new fine art website... it's still 'in the works' but will be completed very soon.

www.chrisproutart.com

Have I mentioned???

2011-05-17T17:11:00.000+01:00

If your in the area, or visiting, this is some news about my imminent exposure!

Selected...

2011-05-11T14:39:00.000+01:00

Mum has done me proud.
Once again I've had a piece selected for the internationally renowned Contemporary Open Art competition in Kettering, Northamptonshire.

It's nice to take part and lovely being selected. Ta muchly.

And thank you to the model too....:-)

Acrylic paint and assorted marks of lead and ketchup.
Arranged on a tatty ol' piece of mdf and gesso and plonked
in one of my hand made frames.

Newport - West Wales

2011-05-04T15:27:00.000+01:00

I've a fondness for the coastal paths of the Westest of Wales...it's in my DNA of course.

Lichen, sand and sea.
40x40cm on panel

Oundle

2011-05-03T18:09:00.001+01:00

There are several things I really like about the pretty Market Town of Oundle.

It's punctuated with stunning architecture. It also benefits from having a decent retail signage policy which means it's not blighted with garish branding from unsightly retailers visually screaming at us. And most importantly..'it has bunting!'
I love bunting, it's cheerful and adds animation to the market place and it just makes me feel good! 'Nuff said.'

"Lets big up bunting!"

No title yet
acrylic on canvas 30x30cm

The colours of spring

2011-04-30T17:40:00.000+01:00

I've little to say at the moment and letting my paintings do the talking. The Spring warmth and sunshine seems to bringing out the best in my work.

I've been producing some paintings of surrounding villages...it's not my usual subject matter but I have to say I'm really enjoying visiting these quiet little places, sketching and exploring. With any luck I'll be displaying some at my forthcoming solo exhibition starting on the 9th July 2011

home sweet home

2011-04-27T17:08:00.001+01:00

Nothing much to say except I'm incredibly busy and knackered.
However here's one I prepared earlier this week.

Home
Acrylic on canvas
50x50cm

painting sketch

2011-04-22T11:32:00.000+01:00

I'm just working on a series of paintings tracking my early morning footsteps walked with my loyal pooch Josh.

This quick sketch is proving to be a catalyst for some bigger works which I'm currently scamping out today. Working on a small scale focuses my mind and minimises the work before I tackle larger scaled artwork...the bold strokes and gestures along with lumps of colour help add the abstraction I'm seeking....often I'm not looking for detail just the mood, shapes and colour...so, less is more, more or less.

I hope to be showing the finished series in July along with countless other new works which I'm slavishly pooling together. So, watch this space!

Doodle
acrylic on panel 20x16cm

It's wild out West..

2011-04-13T15:58:00.001+01:00

Up high.. grass,sea and sky.
acrylic on panel 70x50cm

Event Full!

2011-04-11T17:45:00.000+01:00

Just a quick thank you for those who stopped and noticed me at the Art Fair this weekend. It's the first time I've taken myself and my work on the road, set up stall, nattered and stood up all day!! "Infact for 2 days!"

However, the residual effect was great and extremely successful and met some terrific people both fellow artists and new customers who have just discovered my work at this jam packed event!

The weather was terrific, which draws in the crowds and kept us all busy nattering etc. However, there's always a fall guy whilst having so much fun... 'somebody had to be left behind' ( just this time)... It cast a brown shadow over what was a fun weekend. But after much fuss, a decent meal and a frisky walk.....all has been forgiven and normal service has been resumed.

He sorted the laundry too!...'Good boy.'

An Event!

2011-04-05T11:25:00.001+01:00

My first event of the year...

With a view to overcoming my inferiority complex I've decided to man this gig in person.
I'm not one for events and shy away from exposing myself!....However...I'll be displaying some new artwork, selling cards and some top quality prints. There will also be a free prize draw promoting my solo exhibition in July

It all happens this coming weekend.

It takes place at Barton Hall Studios (details on the poster) a lovely old building which will be crammed packed full with talented artists, makers, photographers, cakes and tea!

You'll find me hidden on the ground floor somewhere, I'll be wearing a balaclava and red carnation should you miss me.

new works

2011-03-24T14:51:00.000Z

Something new...

I have been incredibly busy of late...and just returned from a well earned week off.
So, it's panic stations now for Summer.
Lots more very soon.
Keep your peepers peeled.

Acrylics and all sorts on panel
40x40cm

A gardeners resting place.

2011-02-07T13:53:00.001Z

Everyone should have a shed...a place to create and contemplate.

This was a place of contemplation and beauty. Sadly it's now gone and has mutated under the banner of 'home improvements.'

It was worked and occupied by a lovely ol fella in West Wales.
Both have 'moved on' but the fond memories 'for me' remain.
A moment captured and recorded.

Acrylic on board22x 65cm

The locals...well they made 'me' smile...

2011-01-21T10:04:00.000Z

Holiday sketches..

One encounters all sorts on hols
doesn't one...

hmm...

Pen, wash. sketchbook

Unfamiliar?

2011-01-20T11:32:00.001Z

I reside in Northamptonshire...a very nice green space cuddled up in the middle of the UK...It's topography is.... pretty flat... it's not quite Fenland.. though vertigo is not a condition one would easily suffer.

To the unfamiliar or if you are local to me... the
image above is a depiction of a mountain from the wild west of Wales.

"I like em!"

50x50cm
Acrylic, canvas, lava bread, leek, graphite, knife, brush.

oh, I do love to sit beside the seaside...

2011-01-18T13:23:00.001Z

I'm fed up with winter now... and I also need to see the sea...I could also do with some summer skies and warmth.

So here we go, combating 'winterness' I've gone for this.

Acrylic on canvas 50x50cm, along with charcol, graphite, brush, knife, pen, finger and lashings of optimism.

The Shortest Day

2011-01-03T09:23:00.001Z

A Happy New Year to one and all.

Thought I’d start the year with another Snowy scene. We’ve been having stunning sun rise and sunsets of late and I painted this on the Winter Solstice.

A beautiful moment in the deep and crisp and even.

The shortest day of course and also the anniversary of my fathers passing. How apt.

Winter yawns...

Painted on Canvas, A mixed medium effort in Acrylic

mince pie, brandy sauce, graphite, knife ...and fork.

50x50cm

Kettering Civic Society Rose Bowl Award 2010

2010-12-22T11:09:00.004Z

The shiny thing on the table is not the FA Cup or The Ashes... but an award for my architectural visualising, vision, ideas, notions and potions of Kettering Town Centres regeneration programme... and more specifically the 'Market Place' redevelopment.

This is a rare acknowledgement of my workings of the brain and easel.

I'm honoured and delighted to receive this.

Thank you very very much.

sssssssnow...

2010-12-02T11:49:00.005Z

It's been snowing and it's really really cold.....so naturally I thought, 'grasp the moment Chris'....and go for a walk with Muttley and sketch book. So stupidly I did!
I quickly knocked up sketches with a view to producing some paintings of my walk.....I soon realised just how cold it was and I was catching my breath with cold...this condition restricts your ability to speak and breathe properly, all your chosen words become shortened...Howeve r I carri ed on regar d less....and walke d for abou....t a hour.......man....age d to dra w some nice stuff t o o and soooooon realised just ow colorf ul white ne ss is... Mi ght try it again wh en it' s wa r mer.

Whre es me f lask...?

Acrylic on panel 21x30cm

In the back garden...

2010-11-24T09:56:00.002Z

It's been foggy recently and with the aid of an outstanding autumn we have been blessed with amazing light effects and colour... I've been capturing the moment.

30 cm sq on panel
Knife, brush porridge and acrylic

Autumn, grass, colour...lovely.

2010-11-18T12:51:00.000Z

Acrylic, panel, paint, knife, graphite, screwdriver, muesli.
40cm sq

sketch...

2010-11-16T10:56:00.001Z

pen with ink, sunny day

Thank you..

2010-09-21T22:48:00.000+01:00

To all who visited my studio / gallery over the past two weekends of the opens studios event 2010 a gracious thank you from me. Being tucked away in the sticks I realise that it is a bit of an effort to come and have a gawp at my work and workings... I've had a really good time and I hope you have too.

The residual effect of this event is that it leaves me feeling quite knackered...being a quiet bloke most of the time and wiling away in my creative nerve centre at the foot of the garden ...I tend to listen to the radio, watch birdies, practice my whistling or simply listen to my pooch making pooch noises ...as they do.
It's a quiet life, so having to natter about my work and practice takes some effort, but once I'm in the swing of things I have to admit ' I really enjoy it.'

Some thank yous too...to The OS 2010 Organising team, Mr G, On The Edge, Colemans, The lovely Typestarters, the even lovelier Boydy and the eternally young Al... my sales adviser and security guard.
With out the assistance of my quiet team all this stuff just wouldn't occur...The display is hardly Tate Modern but without this help my Open Studio would be more of a stage set for Steptoe and Son.

On a very positive note, sales have been excellent and the number of visitors up too... possibly the best yet....so all things considered an excellent effort all round.

Also for your attention ...A selection of new artworks are currently on display in Market Harborough at Croft Wingates gallery and at 78 Derngate, Northampton .....both superb venues and are well worth a view.

Best

Open Studios 2010

2010-09-13T14:21:00.013+01:00

Just wanted to thank everybody who took the time and made the effort to visit me for The Opens Studios visual arts festival this past weekend. We had a terrific turn out and being blessed with half decent weather helped create a fun and enjoyable event. We had some really entertaining and lovely people visiting and thank you very very much for the complimentary natter and encouragement ....though it has to be said, that they were mainly about the cake and coffee on offer ( I must try harder with my paintings!)

We had only one hiccup during the proceedings, my loyal and trustworthy pooch who helped himself to a bar of Green and Black chocolate! Dognapped from a visitors handbag'...Out of character for him but at least he's got half decent taste! So if you are planning a visit..'you've been warned!' One discerning dog!

All this fun and creative mayhem happens once again this forthcoming weekend...17th 18th & 19th September 11am - 6pm

And there's also a triple wammy on offer too...

Not only am I showing from my studio /gallery but I'm most chuffed to be showing at the wonderful museum and gallery at 78 Derngate in Northampton. I've got some new paintings on display.....oh yeah and it also happens to be the only Charles Rennie Mackintosh designed building in England.....( It's a cracking place, please do visit..lovely restaurant...) Also another 'feather in me cap' is exhibiting in the Classy Croftwingates gallery in Market Harborough. A site specific selection of new artwork of Market Harborough by me, alongside the very talented Jeremy Barlow and smooth swing of Peter Barker. The staff also serenade you with a really good coffee and a comfy sofa so you can concentrate on the artwork.... just make sure you ask for a biscuit!

Both galleries are showing my work through September and early October. So if you get the chance... it's well worth a peek!

Some example of what you can expect to see are shown below...

It's that time of year once again...

2010-08-25T09:41:00.001+01:00

All welcome here at HQ Loddington
and here.... http://www.78derngate.org.uk/
and here... http://www.croftwingates.co.uk/
during September/October...

Phew...

Enjoy :-)

As I get older...

2010-08-05T11:31:00.003+01:00

As I get older I seem to need less.... So, 'less is more, more or less...'

'The Nook' in the beautiful gardens of The Rectory, Sudborough.

Acrylic on canvas 30x30cm

A new playground

2010-08-03T08:50:00.000+01:00

I've a new workbench, where I can slap paint around, build frames, store, archive and keep the dust away from the computer!
Thanks to Mr G.

Ol Brown eyes

2010-08-02T19:41:00.002+01:00

zzzz...zzzz...zzzz.........zzz.........zzzz........z........

lucky find...

2010-07-27T18:05:00.000+01:00

On a recent trip I bumped into this young energetic artist who paints with lively colour and gusto....a refreshing change I thought.

I'm going to keep an eye on him...one for the future me thinks.
C

Number twos...

2010-07-22T08:39:00.001+01:00

Today I've been notified of another prize!!

Following on from the success at the universally acclaimed Kettering contemporary arts jamboree 2010.....I've also clinched the public vote selected by the visitors to Gallery East during the six week exhibition.

My piece titled - A favourite place number 2, is actually 'Number one!'

So, 'a public vote of confidence'....that for me is terrific and means a great deal, thank you very very much.

The residual effect of this win will undoubtedly be exposed in the coming months...so watch this space.

Most chuffed:-)
Chris

Feeling French...

2010-07-21T12:27:00.002+01:00

The hot sunny weather has a strange effect on me...not only do I turn into a cat I always feel like being on holiday.... Somewhere like the South of France for instance.
Anyway, these thoughts of flight and fancy sometimes overspill ( quite naturally me thinks...) into my artwork.
So, here's 'Market L'Harborough by Sea' in a French, happy, optimistic, flavorsome kinda way...enjoy!

50cmx50cm Acrylic on canvas
1 of six new paintings depicting this lovely market town

Hmm.....

2010-07-14T08:26:00.000+01:00

Things are not as quiet as they appear here in Blogland...

More very soon
c

Another Welsh Summer.....:-)

2010-06-10T14:22:00.000+01:00

The title kinda says it all.....lovely though.

Acrylic on board 50x50cm

In need of Summer...

2010-06-09T08:21:00.002+01:00

I painted this some years ago after a brief visit....it always cheers me up and transports me to sunnier climes.
It's location become a favourite with the Fauves of course...and I can completely understand why.

Acrylic on't paper, big brush, ooodles of sunshine and a smile.
53x76cm

more ink...

2010-05-26T19:48:00.001+01:00

ink, pen, paper, small drawing...big project.

Morning light

2010-05-20T20:02:00.002+01:00

Have been away for a few days and was chomping at the bit to get to the easel.
It's been a beautiful day and in truth, the first real warm day of Summer... and it started like this.

Acrylic on panel 30x30cm

Flexing me nib...

2010-05-13T15:14:00.001+01:00

Can't beat a bit of ink work... t'is clean and straight to the 'point!'

pen, ink, paper 29x21cm

sketch

2010-05-08T18:51:00.003+01:00

'An artists moment'.... and the sudden urge to sketch a hamster.
Gawwwd knows why, but hey why not?

Pen and water colour on very very thin paper.

New Season

2010-05-04T08:13:00.010+01:00

The start of a new business year for me today... and I've already had an excellent start. A good nights kip, then seven laps of the recreation ground with LePooch to exercise the brain muscle and all by 7.15am. The sun is shinning brightly too....which is always welcome.

Next is fuel... So I'm gonna have a mug of coffee, toast and a selection of the above.
Didn't they used to say 'go to work on an egg??'

Gills Finest Range,
Acrylic on panel, graphite, palette knife, two eggs, whisked, salt and pepper, fresh chives and a smidgen of milk, shallow frying pan.
40x40cm

Thank you...

2010-04-30T15:33:00.004+01:00

I've had the good fortune this week to be voted 'Numero Uno' in the internationally acclaimed Kettering 2010 Open Exhibition.

My three pieces, A Favourite Place No's 1, 2 and 3 were selected. No.3 being chosen as the winner...that's the one on the 1st left of the picture, so, it really ought to be No.1...though it was painted last, so it's number 3 to me, saying that I really like No.2 in the picture but that was painted first...strangely enough No.3 which was painted second, has captured 'the feel,' so, in many peoples eyes it's No.1. (ahem, sorry...momentary numerically dyslexic.)

The artwork was painted as a small project and not a triptych. Well... it's not such a small project in truth they're each a metre square so as an amalgam take up a lot of space. I was thrilled to see them displayed and I'm delighted to show you now.

I'd like to say 'well done' also to up and coming artists extraordinaire Sarah Kay and Daniel Kelly, fellow prize winners who have terrific pieces on show. Also to the other artists who made the cut and have had the chance to display work. The Sponsors Wilson Browne LLP who donated the prizes and administered the spring cleaning of the Gallery. To Kettering Council for donating the use of the exhibition space, free electricity, wine and hob nobs for the preview evening. To the gallery staff for filling all the holes in the walls and painting them white..and yet again, 'another well hung job!'

On a serious note... a superb display and 'thank you' for the generous amount of space offered to show my artwork...I'm very very chuffed indeed.

Hat trick!

2010-04-21T11:17:00.010+01:00

Once upon a time, in a previous life zone I was rather bonkers about playing cricket.

This was in the land of my fathers...where men are men..and sheep are terrified.

I think I was about 18/19 years old and I had the wonderful opportunity to represent Glamorgan County Cricket Club in a charity match to celebrate the centenary of Crickhowel CC ( I'm sure it was Crickhowell....this was a fair ol time ago...my memory fails me at times).

Just picture it, a fantastic village club snuggled into the sublime Welsh countryside, political dignitaries and established professional sports folk abound, an excellent turnout for the Sunday fixture, the sun was bright, hot and on me!

I was due to keep wicket but had fractured a finger the day before....not wanting let anybody down I turned up as agreed but suggested an afternoon in the outfield would be sensible. As is custom in these events the visitors bat first (so the 'Glamour boys' need to rattle up a decent score to drag out the event and have fun afternnon etc...)

So, I watched in awe as my fellow colleagues did the necessary and performed with fun and gusto. 'You ought to know that I'm amongst players here that as a kid I was totally in awe of and completely inspired by, so a great treat for me too.'

After the tea break, it was time time for a graze in the outfield....'great!' and a real change for me. I didn't get the chance to bat ( I couldn't hold one) so the afternoon passed quietly by in a fun and fairly non eventful afternoons game. I'd had a quiet day until I was hailed...

'Prouwwwwty' come and have a bowl!

'Eh! Moi?'

Ok, here goes.

I usually wore gloves, I didn't bowl...but I was to make a contribution and I did as I was told.

I made an impressive start, limbering up and stretching... 'It was good that bit, I enjoy a good stretch' ... but bowling Hmm.. well an altogether different offering. I wiggled me arms..they seemed ok and I guess I looked as if I knew what I was doing.

I sensed I was being used as a 'run carrot...and quite right too.' I placed my field, which was a laugh ...I wasn't even sure what I would bowl, like lightening quick, spin or swing (as if, eh!)...so I set the field for all eventualities and just hoped the ball wouldn't sail over my team mates heads.

The first two deliveries were straight forward enough... but I sensed the excitement at the batsman's crease.. I think they thought I was a rooky and 'I' was to pay....and they were spot on!

The third delivery went most appropriately to the boundary..... I thought, 'I wish I was batting against my bowling.' As luck would have it, delivery No4 was a blinder ( quite by chance of course) a yorker, off stump..the batsman's eyes bigger than his bat and Bingo!

'Hooooray!' the grateful and unknowing crowd cheered.

Next delivery....'chink' off stump...Hooray..up went the crowd again!!'

I'd destroyed their core batting unit!! ( Now I'm thinking of course, 'this is a charity match and they need two hundred improbable runs and 2 hours to kill...' )

So, Three in three??....

'Don't do it Chris,' I was advised, 'be sporting,' it was a fun day out...

There was unexpected anticipation in the air,everything stopped, the chinking of glasses, the chatter at the bars and even the midges, which were biting hard, lay motionless...'I considered my next move'.

'The next move' was to bowl the ball as wide as I could and avoid the 3 ball trick... I was in commmmmmmplete control. I also had that ridiculous and uncontrollable inner excitement and laughter inside and I was concentrating really really hard so not to spam this event up. Off I went on my way and delivered what was the perfect wide, slow, outswinging, harmless junk delivery and ......chinck!

Now, how the hell this bloke managed to drag a delivery 2feet wide from his off stump on to his wickets I'll never know'. My heart sank, up went the cheer and I thought 'oh no, that's not good.' Another cheer and round of applause...

I only bowled the six balls and was rested! Deemed 'far too talented' I guess...

The game was a tad one sided and petered out into a chilly summers evening. I was awarded a lovely bottle of champers by the Sports Minister for Welshland...and my colleagues noted what an unsporting wicketkeeper I am. ( they were joking of course.) And a good night was had by all.

'That' was my first 'hat trick'...'my second' was yesterday when I got these three paintings selected for the Sir Alfred East Open Art Extravaganza!

The paintings are of a favourite place of mine ...I thought I'd capture some moments.

They're also nice and big too, and give a real sense of space and 'being there'. They were exciting and very enjoyable to paint.

I look forward to viewing them alongside other talented artyfolk!

Many thanks to Sir Alf's and associated crew for the selection and good luck to all the other successful artists.

On a personal note, there are other events in the offing...one or two rather exciting..... but more on that soon!

Artwork 1m sq inclusive of frame.

Acrylic on canvas, with associated mediums of Laura Ashley satin wood paint

soil, sand, plumrose hot dog sausage, couscous, knife, pencil and brush.

ps...apologies for my ramblings...had an hour spare ....and I'd eaten all the biscuits and....the dog had been walked and....errr

Seaside Special

2010-04-01T15:41:00.003+01:00

This is a rare occurrence.

Usually after toiling with a large painting I'm often knackered out. It's a strangely physical and mentally exhausting process.

Now then, I knowwww that sounds a bit dramatic...but 'it is' the case. Especially when things don't seem to be going quite right. However just now and again the sublime happens and it just all comes together and you've accomplished the task in one hit...no returning to the painting and re-painting and tweaking this, scraping that, looking at it in a mirror or upside down or putting your foot through the canvas...which lets face it doesn't add to the effect. We've all been there.

However this piece I'm completely satisfied with....I've truly got the moment and feel (well it suits me..)

So, here it is, plonked roughshod in a frame awaiting to be buffed up, fixed and completed.

Acrylic, marshmallows, egg white, chunky kitkat, sand, trill pva, graphite, brush and knife on canvas.

90cm sq plus timber frame.

Church Street Mkt H.

2010-03-31T13:55:00.005+01:00

Acrylic, ketchup, john innes no3, graphite and small cerebral parts applied to canvas with brush and knife.

30x30cm

Bottom Lock, Foxton

2010-03-30T10:12:00.003+01:00

A beautiful place to be a duck.

Acrylic and additional matter on canvas 40 x 40cm

Too much sherry...

2010-03-05T09:19:00.006Z

Acrylic, graphite, screw driver, scalpel blade palette, brush and Harveys BC on board, original 40x21cm (detail)

Wet Stuff

2010-03-03T16:42:00.004Z

Acrylic, knives graphite, fingers on panel 30x30cm

A lovely cuppa

2010-03-02T17:56:00.002Z

Acrylic on paper 21x29cm

The drawing board and the easel.

2010-02-24T13:20:00.007Z

Just thought I'd fill in some of the gaps here.

Time spent between these postings are work periods when I'm grafting and working on more architectural based projects. Thinking, designing, conceptualising and visualising etc...

I've not really wanted use this blog as a notice board to flag up this side of my work ...'however after some prodding'... or 'encouragement'......I've decided to show a little, to keep you up to speed so to speak.

And, it is after all, another (major) facet of my work .

This type of work is usually 'work in progress' and I won't be discussing the nature of it..

So, in the future, it'll be more from the drawing board as well as the easel

The Illustrations are A2 size, painted in acrylics and kissed by photoshop.

In the distance...

2010-02-18T15:20:00.005Z

A favorite walk of Josh's, loads to see and pee on.

Acrylic on panel, graphite, custard, sawdust, knives and pencils...30x40cm

Sweet pea

2010-02-17T17:15:00.003Z

Been fiddling about today with my paints, preparing for a new batch of painterly images and looking forward to double diget temperatures...

acrylic on paper 18x24cm

Making grey, green...

2010-01-29T09:01:00.006Z

I sketched this in the Summer of 2009....put it in a draw and forgot about it.

This morning, (yet another cold January grey day) whilst holding a coffee in one hand, dog lead in the other... and musing of the day ahead, I stumbled across this little gem.

A lovely find and it has energised my creative parts already...

the day has gone from grey to green and the thoughts of warmer days ahead...

Simple life eh?

Bic biro, black ink, on toilet paper ( Andrex/ three ply) acid free ( hopefully....ouch!) 11x15cm

pulling a wheelie...

2010-01-28T09:27:00.003Z

acrylic on paper 20x23cm

A favourite walk

2010-01-19T16:00:00.005Z

Acrylic on board, 20 x 16cm

A favourite place...

2010-01-12T14:54:00.004Z

Acrylic on panel 25x25cm

dreaming of something a tad warmer...

2010-01-07T09:32:00.005Z

This is my first painterly offering with a knife and brush since mid December.

I've been really keen to get started on some paintings but find it jolly hard in the cold Winter months. However yesterday I bullied myself into it and 'alla prima'....this is it!

It's really cold out of doors , though very snug in my studio. I was dreaming of warmer months and decided to start this years paintings with some warmth and optimism.

Acrylic on canvas 40x40 cm

with associated mediums of graphite, John Innes No3 some turkey and and a partridge in a pear tree.

Back to school today...

2010-01-04T08:53:00.004Z

After far tooooo long a Christmas break I'm glad to be back in the studio.

It's really cold out of doors and rather lovely.

And just to prove it, here's a picture of moi....

shivering me bits orf!

Happy new year to all :-)

Fast and loose!

2009-12-30T14:34:00.004Z

I've been consumed for the past few months with the commercial art side of my business and have had to put a hold on the painting side of things...

' though it's fair to say much is in progress'. Here is a ditty to illustrate the painterly way forward for 2010. Faster, looser and more impressionistic. It's a world away from my architectural work...and probably why it's so enjoyable to do!

new seasons offerings...

2009-12-18T13:23:00.006Z

New Year new offerings...

I've been very busy and have had no time to blog.

However much is going on behind the scenes so to speak.

This card display stand I've knocked up today, it's the start of my range of fine art cards and prints. These will be for sale on my new website, directly from me...theartistinformallyknownasprout and from select stores throughout the Universe.

Festive greetings to all...

Zzz...

2009-11-30T18:01:00.002Z

Things are busy here at HQ... producing all sorts of nice illustrations and paintings. Hence little time to think and blog.

Josh however is doing what he does best!

Eating and running are a close run second and third...

Portraits of a painting...

2009-11-12T13:19:00.002Z

Welsh cake Mervyn?

2009-11-10T07:35:00.003Z

news flash...

2009-11-09T21:12:00.003Z

My painting '3 surfers' has been selected for the Leicester Open21 Exhibition.

The City Gallery spreads it's wings far and wide to attract rich creative pickings of all mediums for this show.

I'm really pleased to have been selected from what would have been a large number of entries.

The Show commences from 13th November to 9th January 2010 and the quality of the work is always of a very high standard. So, well worth a ganda.

3 Surfers, Langland Bay

2009-11-02T16:42:00.006Z

Acrylic on Canvas with applied elemental textures, graphite and knife.

50x50cm plus personally hand finished frame.

Hot on the Hob...

2009-10-28T16:37:00.000Z

New for Old.

2009-10-23T13:14:00.005+01:00

New Frame old picture.

Acrylic on board, John Innes No3, pencil, palette knife and other sharp implements.

34x 40 cm

The Spectators...

2009-10-20T10:59:00.003+01:00

Ink on paper, 21x 29cm

'Chicken tonight...'

2009-10-19T19:00:00.003+01:00

6b Pencil on't paper...

Something very new...

2009-10-16T16:10:00.004+01:00

Acrylic on board, with pencil and knives of different kinds.

A moment of Autumnal madness...

2009-10-15T17:20:00.005+01:00

Here we go, a moment of celebration!

It's been a wonderful weeks weather, cold bright mornings and lashings of sunlight.

So here's a bit of silly abstract stuff of a sunny morning gallop with the pooch...we're not in the picture of course but we're soaked up in the atmosphere... and jolly nice it is too!

evenmoredoodledoos....!

2009-10-13T15:56:00.000+01:00