The Light Fantastic

I think I saw a sliver of blue sky this morning, and it has put me in the mood to celebrate all things sun-drenched, warm and golden.

Monteriggioni, Siena

The late Carlo Rossi is famed for his Italian scenes, and anyone who has been to Italy knows that the light really does have this effect on the landscape.  A kind of a golden twinkle that captured Carlo's heart and imagination.  

La Fornacetta, Barga

He would capture this light with his oils, celebrate it really, and his paintings would come alive.  A beautiful subject, made more beautiful.

Sommocolono, Garfagnana

People who have come to see this memorial exhibition have been in awe of this very large Venetian scene.  Not only do many people have happy memories of Venice, but this painting exquisitely portrays the beauty and romance of the incomparable 'floating' city 

Palazzi on The Canal Grande, Venice

Somebody today commented that it looked like a 'fairytale land'.  I liked this because I don't think that this was Carlo's intention, it was just the way it came through his brush.

Bomarzo, Lazio

Many of these paintings have sold, but each and every one that hasn't yet is beautiful. This special exhibition has been extended to run until 29th July.



Thanks for reading!


Natalie

Carlo Rossi RSW RGI Tribute

The Carlo Rossi RSW RGI Memorial Exhibition opens this Sunday.  Carlo passed away in 2010 at the age of ninety.  His family have asked us to pay this special tribute to him.  It was an honour to be asked.

Carlo at work in his studio

Almost sixty paintings are being hung and the gallery is being transformed.  As I look around, it feels very special to get a glimpse of one artist's view of the world through seven decades.

Monteriggioni, Siena

And Carlo's view of the world was beautiful.  It was a pleasure to know him, and it is a pleasure to hold this exhibition as a tribute to a very special man.  The legacy of this beautiful work is quite breath-taking.  I would love as many people as possible to see it. 

Art Nouveau Building, Alexander Parade

The exhibition opens 2pm to 5pm on Sunday with wine and Italian chocolates. Please join us to celebrate the life and works of Carlo Rossi RSW RGI.

Thanks for reading

Natalie

The Talented Mr Rossi

All the Carlo Rossi RSW RGI paintings have now arrived at the gallery for the Memorial Exhibition opening on 1st July.

Septet

I expected a good collection, but nothing like this.  I adored Carlo, and I would exhibit his beautiful works in mixed exhibitions whenever he would let me.  He didn't paint to exhibit, he painted everyday because it was who he was, it was what he loved.  If I was very lucky, he would allow me to choose a couple of my favourite paintings to spirit away to the gallery!

Bomarzo, Lazio

Although Carlo was born in Glasgow, both of his parents came from Italy and the family was steeped in all things Italian.  It was almost as if he knew the sights and sounds before he ever travelled there. The history of the family is intriguing and Carlo's sons Paolo and Mario have written fascinating essays compiled in a beautiful catalogue especially for the exhibition.

The Artist's Mother

Although Carlo continued to live in Glasgow, he met a lovely girl who was visiting from Barga, Tuscany and when they married, he finally got to visit his beloved Italy.  

He and Vittoria spent much time there, and I think it may have become a spiritual home for him. This love and passion comes through in his paintings.  The warm golden light of Italy sparkles in them, even in his scenes of Glasgow! 

Art Nouveau Building, Alexander Parade



A Little Gem-215 High Street

When I went to meet his son Paolo at Carlo's studio, it was quite an experience to go through the many paintings that were there.  I could hear Carlo saying with a smile 'Now just two!'.

I got a lot more than two this time, and I hope Carlo knows how much I am going to enjoy filling the gallery with works of his from 1946 to 2008, so that people can see what an extraordinary talent he was.

La Fornacetta Barga

Having been a little tentative about how I would feel, I am gladdened to say that I feel joy, and not sadness that I get to exhibit Carlo's work when he is no longer here.  The works have already filled the gallery with sparkle and light, and anyone who has seen them peaking out of there bubble wrap has been wanting to see more and more.

Donne Innamorate

The exhibition opens on Sunday 1st July and I can't wait.

Thanks for reading!


Natalie