Kevin Low

Kevin Low is one of the exhibiting artists in our current Affordable Art Show and his work stands out though as something quite original and unique.

The Thief



The work is striking and enigmatic.  Each painting draws you into the world of a carefully crafted character. They are at once intriguing, witty and mysterious.  And most intriguing of all, this isn’t painting as we know it.

The Bachelor

At first glance these could be oil paintings, but there is a unique quality to them and on closer inspection, something completely different. 

Kevin is using a relatively new digital technique to create his beautiful works.  Recently championed by David Hockney, the technique of digital painting is being explored by more and more artists. 

The Rival

Never to replace painting, it is another medium that can now be used to create works of art. He draws his work with a digital tablet and pen.  The images are then printed using archival papers and inks. Each print is produced only in an edition of 10, making them pleasingly more affordable.

Kevin is fast becoming one of Scotland’s best-known digital painters.


The paintings will be on show until 22 February.


Thanks for reading!


Natalie

Six Degrees of Success!

We have one week to go of our current Six Degrees of Separation exhibition.  I have loved this show.  The idea was to bring together six well known artists whose work is very different, almost incompatible.  But as with most things, there are threads that run through us, binding us together whether we like it or not! 

The contrast in this exhibition is so striking, people have really been enjoying going from one artist's work to another. It's fascinating for me to see how different people fall in love, or otherwise, with different works.  All of these paintings have been bought by enthusiastic art-lovers.  These exquisite Kirsty Wither's with their vibrancy and lust for life are all going to good homes.

And then the mysterious Kevin Low's have intrigued, sometimes unsettled, but mainly captivated their onlookers.  He creates compelling characters that draw you in and these are some of the ones that couldn't be resisted!

I am a huge fan of Kevin's work and as his work is new to the gallery, I am delighted he has been selling well.  It means he will hopefully return!

The jewel in our crown, our choice of invitation cover, was this exquisite painting by the brilliant Alice McMurrough.  It was unsurprisingly snapped up immediately and it has drawn many people through the gallery doors.  Thank you Alice!

And I had a feeling this little(or is he huge) pooch would find a good home to go to!

There are of course just as many paintings that have been fallen in love with but not purchased.  Here are a few of the most popular.

Hazel Nagl RSW RGI PAI

       Christopher Wood RSW

Kirsty Wither

Alice McMurrough

Kevin Low

It's affirming to see such enthusiasm for creativity, imagination and self-expression when our world seems a little under a cloud at the moment.  We will always need our art to buoy us when other things don't make sense.  We don't always have to understand what we are looking at, but our reactions help us to gauge and engage our thoughts and feelings.  We have no choice but to react - that is what art does, like music and natural beauty.  It encourages you to feel a little different from the way you do right now.


Thanks for reading!


Natalie

Kevin Low

Kevin Low is currently exhibiting in our new exhibition, Six Degrees of Separation.

I spotted his work a year or so ago and was immediately taken with it.  This response is always what I'm on the look out for, and it doesn't happen very often.

The Acrobat

His work is striking and enigmatic.  Each painting draws you into the world of a carefully crafted character, complete with back story, hopes and dreams.  They are at once intriguing, witty and mysterious.  And most intriguing of all, this isn’t painting as we know it.

Annie Copeland as the Ingenue from 'The Devil in the Wings'

Kevin is using a new technique to create his beautiful works.  Recently championed by David Hockney, the technique of digital painting is being explored by more and more artists.  Never to replace painting, it is another medium that can now be used to create works of art.

Miss Heatherwicke as 'Winter'



He draws and paints with a digital 'tablet' and 'pen', building up layers and layers until his vision is complete.  Then they are printed using the highest quality archival papers and inks. Each print is produced only in an edition of 10, making them pleasingly more affordable.  They will never be reproduced.

Parlour Window Waiting

Kevin is fast becoming one of Scotland’s best-known digital painters and we are delighted to welcome this new medium and it’s gorgeous results to Smithy Gallery.

The medium, like any other is secondary to what is created.  I think these paintings are beautiful and intriguing, and yes I'm taking one home with me!

Take a look at the website for all of Kevin's paintings at http://www.smithygallery.co.uk/CurrentInages9.html 

And just look at those red dots!

Thanks for reading!

Natalie



It Was Six Degrees on Sunday!

There was a fabulous turn out for the opening of our new exhibition, Six Degrees of Separation on Sunday. 

The champagne and the sales flowed, and I want to thank all the artists and the art-lovers who made the day such a success.

I am absolutely loving the look of this exhibition.  We have six very different artists exhibiting:  Kirsty Wither, Kevin Low, Alice McMurrough, Christopher Wood RSW, Hazel Nagl RSW RGI PAI and Emma Waine. 

These artists are all coming from different places, and are at different stages in their careers, but when their work hangs together, there seems to be a certain magic about it. 

Surreal, figurative, abstract, expressionist.  These differing works sit together so well because each artist is so incredibly defined in personality and consequently in their self-expression.

There is a strength about each artists' collection that stands alone and also complements the others'.  It feels like a celebration of the individuality that we all possess, and that only a true artist can express.  This for me, is exactly what art art is about and that as a gallery, I am lucky enough to be able to draw attention to.

So, you are all invited!  The exhibition continues until 24 June.  The champagne and exquisite cakes have been quaffed, but you will be far too distracted to notice!

The exhibition can also be viewed on line at http://www.smithygallery.co.uk/currentExhibitions.htm

Thanks for reading!

Natalie

Six Degrees

I'm surrounded by beautiful paintings, hanging the new exhibition.  Six Degrees of Separation previews this Sunday and it is around this point that I start to get butterflies.  There is so much planning that goes into an exhibition.  And when that first exciting thought is so close to fruition, you want to get it right!  

I have invited six very different and successful artists to exhibit together, and luckily they said yes!



Kevin Low

Kevin Low is fast becoming one of Scotland's best known digital painters.  His work is striking and enigmatic.  Using the newest medium championed by David Hockney, there will only ever be ten of each, making them pleasingly affordable.  Each painting draws you into the world of a carefully crafted character, back story and all.  They are at once intriguing, witty and mysterious.  I want one.

 



Kirsty Wither



Kirsty Wither is a beautiful artist and a beautiful girl who has been the darling of the London and Edinburgh art scene for several years now.  Her shimmering landscapes and still lifes are an ode to the medium of paint, and look good enough to eat.  Her success is well-deserved and I am delighted to be showing her at Smithy Gallery.

Christopher Wood RSW

Christopher Wood RSW is a fabulous Edinburgh-based abstract artist.  He was recently honoured with the role of President of the Society of Scottish Artists.  His work graces many impressive public collections, and amongst his esteemed collectors are HRH Prince Charles (and me!).

Emma Waine

Another bold and abstract artist is young and upcoming artist Emma Waine. Already the winner of scholarships and awards, watch this space!

Alice McMurrough

I love Alice McMurrough.  Her paintings are steeped in theatrical characters, symbolism, legend and narrative.  Always strangely beautiful, the viewer must study the detail and make up their own minds.

Hazel Nagl RGI RSW PAI

Hazel Nagl is a really beautiful painter, with the accolades to prove it.  I have wanted to exhibit her work for a long time.  Her paintings are dramatic but tonally subtle, always imparting a sense of space and light.

The exhibition is now available to view online at http://www.smithygallery.co.uk/currentExhibitions.htm

Thanks for reading!

Natalie

Six Degrees of Separation

Around half way through an exhibition, I have to turn my attention to what is coming next.  And it's a goodie, so here's a taster before the invitations are sent out!

Our next exhibition, Six Degrees of Separation, previews on 20 May.   This well known phrase refers to the idea that everybody on earth is approximately six steps away from everybody else.  So in effect a chain of people, places or events can be identified that links us all.

I'm using it to refer to six very successful artists, all with different backgrounds and styles, but who are now going to be linked by exhibiting at Smithy Gallery.  Six Degrees of Separation by John Guare also happens to be one of my favourite plays, so run with me!

More importantly, this is who is coming to Smithy Gallery . . . .

The beautiful Kirsty Wither, who has reached stellar heights over the last few years in London and Edinburgh is finally coming to Smithy Gallery.  And we're over the moon!

I am delighted that Edinburgh's Christopher Wood RSW will be showing alongside Kirsty.  One of my all-time favourite painters, his works have depth, passion and the most beautiful of palettes.  It makes me hungry just to look at them! I have a large painting of his hanging in my lounge, but I think it will be time for another one!

Then we have our youngest artist, Emma Waine.  I have been excited about her work from the moment I saw it.  She creates canvases of all sizes with a boldness and energy that you don't often see.  There is meaning behind all of her works.  She travels extensively with sketchbook in hand and notes all aspects of her journeys.  These experiences culminate in vibrant pieces that I just love.  She's been busy winning awards and scholarships and I'm so glad to be exhibiting this rising star.

I love it when out of the blue I see something different that completely captures my attention.  I especially love it when it also happens to be very beautiful.  This is work by Kevin Low and I had no idea just how different his work was until I asked him about it.  They are paintings, but they are painted digitally.  Not a paint brush in sight!  He uses the technique now being championed by David Hockney.  It is art, it is creation, but by means of a new medium.

Also working with a feather-light touch is Hazel Nagl, but with very different results.  She is a beautiful painter, creating works way beyond her subject matter.  I have admired her for many years.  Her work is unique to her and the paintings always catch your eye and lift your mood, like sun breaking through the clouds.

And then there is Alice.  Alice McMurrough creates worlds of dark, light, magic, symbolism and wonder.  They are beautiful and intriguing and these narrative works invite the viewer into a different world.  You can dip your toe in, or go the whole way!


Six Degrees of Separation - a wonderful play and soon to be a very wonderful exhibition!


Thanks for reading!


Natalie

It Must Be Love

Love is in the air . . . . I know, but you can choose to ignore Valentine's Day, or you can open your heart to a little loving.  Be it a plate of pasta, a small kitten, or a stunning painting you just have to have!

Here are a couple of beauties gracing the walls of the gallery at the moment.

Stunning . . . .



Kevin Low



Fabulous . . . . . .



Emma Waine



Intriguing . . . .

Gordon Wilson

And oh so cute . . . . . sorry, couldn't resist!



This isn't in the gallery



We at Smithy Gallery love dogs too.

Thanks for reading!

Natalie

A Good Year

What a start to the year it's been!  I'm so pleased to say that this, our fourth annual Affordable Art Show, is doing better than ever.  Since it opened last Sunday, twenty-two paintings have sold, and twenty-one pieces of sculpture and ceramic!





I like to use numbers because it shows in black and white that it's still possible to thrive in the art world.  The importance of art in our lives is still being recognised, and the talent that we have in Scotland is not only being appreciated, but it's being snapped up.

So what can follow such a successful show . . . .  The diary of exhibitions for the year is I think, one of the most exciting we've had.  With Smithy Gallery favourites, together with well known collectible Scottish artists who haven't exhibited with us before, the diary for the year is looking more than good.  Here's a sneak preview:

In March, we have a long-awaited solo exhibition by Scottish colourist Laura Harrison . . . .



In April, we are showing works by the famed Alasdair Gray in a two-person exhibition with Joyce Gunn Cairns MBE, who I think is his east coast match . . . .



In May/June we have a group exhibition of works by acclaimed artists Kirsty Wither, Christopher Wood RSW, Hazel Nagl, Kevin Low and David Schofield.  This will be a stunning showcase of artistic talent from bold expression, to intricate narrative detail.  A must-see!

And then we have the honour of holding a memorial exhibition for the much-loved Carlo Rossi RSW RGI, who died in 2010 at the age of eighty nine.  A wonderful painter and a wonderful man.

In August a three person exhibition with David Martin RSW RGI, Sian MacQueen RSW and Charles Simpson.

In September, I'm delighted to be exhibiting new paintings by Sandy Murphy RSW RGI PAI again.  This time he will be showing in a four person show with his chosen contemporaries.

I've whizzed through most of the year, and so many possible paintings have whizzed through my  mind, so I should stop here before I exhaust myself with anticipation!

And I don't wish to give it all away just yet anyway, so you will just have to stay tuned! 

But I think it will be a good year.

Thanks for reading!

Natalie

Get Ready For Sunday!

I'm almost ready for The Affordable Art Show private viewing on Sunday.  As all the paintings come together on the walls, I feel like I'm holding my breath until the very last one fits, and then. . . . . I look around and it's like finishing a Rubik's cube (I only ever got two sides, so I'm using my imagination!).  Suddenly, the whole gallery seems to come alive and it's a wonderful feeling.

You see, that's why the hanging of an exhibition is so important to me.  When it works, it's as if the gallery has had new life breathed into it - it's entirely different, and I love the effect it has on me.  It's like beautiful fresh air.

So almost one hundred paintings have been hung, from around twenty-five of Scotland's best and most interesting artists.  I can't wait to see the reaction on Sunday.  Ooh, here's a taster!

We have Margaretann Bennett RSW . . . .

Alice McMurrough (I'm thinking many many things, but it's Ghostbusters that springs to mind!) . . . . .

Gordon Wilson (I love this tender painting, but you have to see it in person) . . . . .

George Grant (esoteric, atmospheric, evocative, only words that begin with vowels!) . .. . .

And Kevin Low (digital painter extraordinaire, yes digital!  Creativity is creativity and beauty is beauty) . . . . . .

 

 

There are so many more diverse paintings included in this exhibition.  Come this Sunday, 2pm to 5pm for champagne, canapes, music and then you can see for yourself.

 

 

Thanks for reading!

 

 

Natalie

 

The Artist

I just saw the film The Artist at the cinema.  Sometimes I think we feel we have seen it all, that we almost expect to be disappointed.  Isn't is wonderful when something is even better than you expected.  The attention to detail was stunning. It was sweet, funny, uplifting.  And it was original.

As much as I like a little familiarity in my life, originality is what I'm looking for.  I have invited the artists that I admire to exhibit in The Affordable Art Show, opening this Sunday.   Around twenty-five have come to the gallery with their collections of paintings, wrapped up like secrets.

I know each artist's work well, but every so often, when I peel back the bubble wrap . . .boom!  It's like a new sensation.  Just fabulous, one of the best feelings!  And yes, I got it with this.  Kevin Low's 'The Dancer Grace Han All Done Up Like Spring'.

Captivating, beautiful, and just a little bit different from traditional painting. 

Yes, this artist has just what I'm looking for.


Thanks for reading!


Natalie