I and a number of fellow artists received the welcome news this week that our works have been selected for inclusion in the upcoming Guild of Aviation Artists (Virtual) annual Exhibition, which begins on the 19th of July (details here: https://gava.org.uk/annual-summer-exhibition ). It is always a boost to one's confidence when something like this happens. Most of us who paint and draw aircraft do so for a fairly limited audience. Aviation art, like maritime art or art devoted to cars etc., is not necessarily sought after by the general public, though the following among devotees of the genre is certainly loyal. That being said, I am hoping that the online exhibition this year will give a much wider audience the opportunity to view (and possibly purchase) works from some of the finest exponents of this subject matter. My own contribution will be three paintings of various aspects of the Sopwith Pup, revolving (Ha) around its Le Rhone rotary engine, a type of propulsion that has always fascinated me. Gobs of torque and no throttle. Either flat out or nothing. Story of my life.
Sopwith Pup, uncowled, with Le Rhone Rotary Engine. Note the wooden Engine Bearers. They don’t make ‘em like that any more.
This causes me to wonder if there should not be more online exhibitions. I know that there are plenty of online Galleries that offer works from their established stable of artists, but a general admission exhibition, allowing a wider variety of work from a wide variety of artists, certainly couldn't help but broaden the appeal of the subject and allow a greater exposure than offered by bricks and mortar galleries. Perhaps a series of mini-exhibitions or regional shows by local artists. Just a thought.
Of course, nothing beats actually being in the presence of a painting, seeing it up close and personal, appreciating the texture, brushstrokes and nuances the artist incorporated into the finished product. Online showings can't really match that experience, but they can allow those who cannot or will not travel to have the chance to see and appreciate art in a way that is accessible and convenient. The GAvA online Virtual exhibition of 2020 was structured in a way that allowed the viewer to wander through the gallery and access information about any work of interest. Given the circumstances, it was an excellent event and although the Covid restrictions are being lifted somewhat here in the UK, the situation this last couple of weeks in India proves that this rather pernicious virus is still a threat to be reckoned with, no matter where you are. Exactly which museums, galleries and events open up to the public in the coming months is still a bit of an unknown and I suspect that a good segment of the public will remain cautious. That being said, if the lockdown blues have got you in their grip and you just need to get out and about, here are some upcoming events and exhibitions that should soon be available:
The Tate Modern is planning to open on 17 May and has a whole slate of events on its Spring schedule. Go here to check it all out: https://www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-modern
The Dulwich Picture Gallery opens on 19 May and is gearing up some interesting things. They also have an online component that gives you a look at some of their more famous paintings. https://www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk
Although the Courtauld Institute doesn't yet have a firm date for re-opening, you can browse the various collections and short courses available here: https://courtauld.ac.uk/gallery
Speaking of Exhibitions, you can submit work for the Royal Academy's Summer show up until the 24th of May. If that appeals to you, have a look here: https://summer.royalacademy.org.uk
The National Gallery in London plans on re-opening on the 17th of May with a new series of shows, events and courses: https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/
Here's a short update on my work in progress for the Tangmere Museum; Still feeling my way with tones and such, but getting there slowly ( the upcoming vegetable growing season takes up a bit of my time as well ) but I find that letting things percolate for a while helps solidify the ideas. Might yet put some more GSE in. Who knows.
Work in progress, Meteor F.4 preparing for World Speed record attempt, 1946.
Ta Ta for now. Keep safe get your vaccinations.