Blog

'Shadows Of Honesty'

I am thoroughly delighted to announce that I have a painting selected for the 2021 UK Pastel Society exhibition in London next month.

The following is taken from The Pastel Society UK website, which best describes the history and purpose of the Society:

'Encouraging the use of pastel within the contemporary art world. The Society was founded in 1898, and the first exhibition held in the Royal Institute in Piccadilly. Founder members and early exhibitors included Brangwyn, Degas, Rodin, Rothenstein, Whistler and G.F. Watts. There are currently over fifty-five Members who are professional artists living and working in this country and overseas. Membership is granted through a strict assessment of technical skill, originality, innovation and enthusiasm.

The Society pursues its aims through education and example. It is currently responsible for organising exhibitions, tutorial workshops, demonstrations and lectures throughout the UK. The Society's major showcase is the Annual Exhibition held at the prestigious Mall Galleries in London. This is open to entries from both Members and Non-Members. Awards are made to works of particular note. Workshops are held during the year and demonstrations/talks are also provided throughout the duration of the exhibition.'

This is the second successive year I have had a painting selected for inclusion.

One of the highlights of 2020 for me was attending the Preview evening and collecting the Royal Talens Award for my painting, 'Fire of The Deep'. I had an amazing day and met many incredibly talented Artists whom I have long admired. To have my work shown alongside them was a huge honour and I am pinching myself that the judges have chosen one of my pieces to be included again!

This is what I wrote to accompany 'Shadows of Honesty',

A study in two and three dimensions, light and reflection, I was compelled to paint these Honesty seeds after seeing them growing wild. My Mother used to have a vase of them when I was a child which brought feelings of nostalgia and also bemusement that something named ‘Honesty’ could be almost translucent and yet cast shadows of doubt.
Whilst some seeds are beautifully pearlescent, others remain dark, their papery textures concealing precious content. The vibrancy of colourful petals have also gone from the dried poppy heads, but the promise of sleeping life, remains.
I arranged them in a vase, as my Mother did.

The exhibition runs January 27th- February 12th 2021 at The Mall Galleries, London.

The whole show can be seen online now at

https://www.mallgalleries.org.uk/whats-on/exhibitions/pastel-society-annual-exhibition-2021

Preview day is Tuesday 26th. Please contact me if you would like a ticket for Preview day. Time slots must be booked ahead of your visit to allow for safe distancing. Fingers crossed that the show will be open and accessible for the public for opening. The standard as ever, is incredible - there is so much variety, skill and talent!

Many thanks again to the Pastel Society and I do hope you enjoy the show - albeit online, hopefully 'for real'.

Thankyou for reading

Wishing you a Happy and Healthy 2021

Fiona

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