Past Exhibitions
Wednesday 16th May - Thursday 7th June
Colours of Summer
The Upstairs Gallery Summer Open Exhibition
Includes paintings, printmaking, mixed media, ceramics, jewellery, textiles, glass
Colours of Summer
The Upstairs Gallery Summer Open Exhibition
Includes paintings, printmaking, mixed media, ceramics, jewellery, textiles, glass
Tuesday 1st May - Saturday 12th May
Natural Selection
Paintings and Mixed Media work by Elaine Etkind, Penny Figgis, Mitzie Green,
Terry Sadler, Jenny Watts
In this show five friends from artworks4you explore the visual arts through a wide range of styles. They use their shared background and tackle the theme of Natural Selection.
Natural Selection
Paintings and Mixed Media work by Elaine Etkind, Penny Figgis, Mitzie Green,
Terry Sadler, Jenny Watts
In this show five friends from artworks4you explore the visual arts through a wide range of styles. They use their shared background and tackle the theme of Natural Selection.
Tuesday 10th April - Saturday 28th April
Uncertain Territory
Paintings and Prints by Helen Campbell, Laurence Causse-Parsley, Alison Lumb
An exhibition exploring those moments and places in which we escape the everyday. All three artists share an interest in how from time to time, we step outside the known, safe and familiar, into liminal states and places. Daily life is held in suspension: the terrain is unfamiliar, and the future is thrown into doubt, if only for a moment.
Uncertain Territory
Paintings and Prints by Helen Campbell, Laurence Causse-Parsley, Alison Lumb
An exhibition exploring those moments and places in which we escape the everyday. All three artists share an interest in how from time to time, we step outside the known, safe and familiar, into liminal states and places. Daily life is held in suspension: the terrain is unfamiliar, and the future is thrown into doubt, if only for a moment.
Linear perspectives and abstract observations
Tuesday 20 March - Saturday 7th April
Paintings by Emma Franc
Emma's new paintings feature both still life compositions and interior scenes. Often using several different view points on a still life and drawing in lines on top of a painting resulting in giving it a 3D feel. In other paintings she simplifies a composition into areas of colour and adding texture to bring a scene to life.
Béné Newton - ceramics
Kate Wilkinson, Dawn Howard, Ann Marshall - jewellery
Ann Brooks - textiles
Margie Harris - lampshades
Tuesday 20 March - Saturday 7th April
Paintings by Emma Franc
Emma's new paintings feature both still life compositions and interior scenes. Often using several different view points on a still life and drawing in lines on top of a painting resulting in giving it a 3D feel. In other paintings she simplifies a composition into areas of colour and adding texture to bring a scene to life.
Béné Newton - ceramics
Kate Wilkinson, Dawn Howard, Ann Marshall - jewellery
Ann Brooks - textiles
Margie Harris - lampshades
A is for Agatha
A body of work by 14 artists from Boden Press
A literary themed exhibition based on the work of Agatha Christie
Private View: 5th March, 4.30pm - 8.30pm
Monday 5th March - Saturday 17th March
A body of work by 14 artists from Boden Press
A literary themed exhibition based on the work of Agatha Christie
Private View: 5th March, 4.30pm - 8.30pm
Monday 5th March - Saturday 17th March
Tuesday 20 February - Saturday 3rd March
Embrace
Margaret Mee
Tuesday 20 February - Saturday 3rd March
A dynamic and vibrant exhibition featuring large drawings and paintings of musicians and dancers
Journey
Open Photographic exhibition
Tuesday 16th January - Saturday 17th February 2018
Our opening exhibition for 2018 showcases a wide range of interpretations of the theme 'Journey', and a range of photographic approaches, from traditional film-based images, darkroom techniques, digital photography, through to photographic montage using a variety of materials. The wall work is complemented by the distinctive ceramic heads by Sue Wagstaff, influenced by her time in Africa, and Pirjo Keene's quirky 3-dimensional images of buildings.
Open Photographic exhibition
Tuesday 16th January - Saturday 17th February 2018
Our opening exhibition for 2018 showcases a wide range of interpretations of the theme 'Journey', and a range of photographic approaches, from traditional film-based images, darkroom techniques, digital photography, through to photographic montage using a variety of materials. The wall work is complemented by the distinctive ceramic heads by Sue Wagstaff, influenced by her time in Africa, and Pirjo Keene's quirky 3-dimensional images of buildings.
A Winter's Tale
Open Christmas Exhibition
Wednesday 22 November - Saturday 6 January
Open Christmas Exhibition
Wednesday 22 November - Saturday 6 January
Forming Reality III
Paintings by Andrew Dixon
with Ceramics by Paul Rowbottom
6th - 18th November
Paintings by Andrew Dixon
with Ceramics by Paul Rowbottom
6th - 18th November
The gallery is delighted to welcome back oil painter Andrew Dixon and ceramicist Paul Rowbottom. Andrew shows both nationally and locally, and his new work includes images, mainly painted en plein air, of hometown Berkhamsted, Norfolk, London and Essex, plus exquisite flower paintings. Paul originally trained as a sculptor. His work is contemporary in feel, yet reaches back to ancient heritage. He has recently spent time in Japan, and work on show includes wood-fired tea bowls, tiles and platters made during this time, and English slipware vessels and platters.
Art Soul Impressions - Solo exhibition By Kim Major-George
24th October - 4th November
Established printmaker/artist Kim Major-George has put together a solo exhibition showing the best of her unique spiritually inspired hand pulled prints. Kim is known for her atmospheric images and experimental mark making, creating unusual effects with many layers of crackle and precious metals.
Kim will be in the gallery with her portable printing press to talk about her unusual techniques on Saturday 28th October 10:30 am - 3.30 pm
Kim will be in the gallery with her portable printing press to talk about her unusual techniques on Saturday 28th October 10:30 am - 3.30 pm
Dacorum and Chiltern Potters Guild
Exhibition and Sale of Contemporary Ceramics
Tuesday 10th - Saturday 21st October
This, their first exhibition at Upstairs Gallery, will offer a chance to view and buy work from sixteen ceramicists from the Dacorum and Chiltern Potters Guild. The work on display will demonstrate a wide range of ceramic forms, including hand-built pots and sculptures as well as thrown pottery and a range of different techniques and finishes such as raku and majolica. There will always be one of the potters in the Gallery to answer any questions you might have.
New Talents
An exhibition of work by Year 13 students from Berkhamsted School
Monday 2 - Saturday 7 October
An exhibition of work by Year 13 students from Berkhamsted School
Monday 2 - Saturday 7 October
Something out of Nothing
Wednesday 13 September - Saturday 30 October
An exhibition of images and objects created out of found and recycled materials, showing a huge range of exciting approaches and creativity using stuff which is often discarded. Visitors were asked to cast a vote for the 'best Something out of Nothing' - congratulations to the winner, Denise Purdy, for Waterfall - a construction of lights from discarded bottles.
Emerging Artists - Future Stars
Tuesday 29th August - Saturday 9th September
Tuesday 29th August - Saturday 9th September
FROM PRISONER OF WAR TO PIONEERING ABSTRACT PHOTOGRAPHER - VICTOR NIEMCZYK
Tuesday 8 - Saturday 26 August
Architectural model maker, sculptor and pioneer abstract photographer. Victor was born in 1918 in Stryj, a town in S.E. Poland which is now part of the Ukraine. He had a long standing interest in photography – his photograph of the Egyptian Pyramids taken while training in the 1st School of Tank Officers was Victor’s first published photo.
His interest alongside general photography was in experimental new techniques and abstract forms. In particular he explored the new technique of physiographs. Victor combined images of objects, animals and people into abstract designs. He considered some of these the most difficult and complicated to make and was immensely proud of them.
The gallery is showing a collection of his fascinating photographs, plus some sculptural pieces. His wife will be joining us in the gallery on Saturday 12 August at midday to talk about the background to his work.
His interest alongside general photography was in experimental new techniques and abstract forms. In particular he explored the new technique of physiographs. Victor combined images of objects, animals and people into abstract designs. He considered some of these the most difficult and complicated to make and was immensely proud of them.
The gallery is showing a collection of his fascinating photographs, plus some sculptural pieces. His wife will be joining us in the gallery on Saturday 12 August at midday to talk about the background to his work.
Roots, Shoots and Leaves
18th July - 5th August
18th July - 5th August
From the Earth was an event which took place in June 2016. Its aim was to promote ethical textile practices in the broadest sense, through the use of natural dyes and printing processes, natural fabrics and fibres, with particular reference to those produced in ethical ways, up cycling and incorporating other natural materials and ‘found’ items. The Exhibition, which took place at the Mardleybury Gallery, Datchworth was a great success and included British and international artists. Work can be seen below from Alice Fox, .Louise Wainwright and.Jane Mercer.
Chesham Grammar - A level Art Exhibition
10th - 15th July
10th - 15th July
We are very excited by the work the students have produced this year there are some amazing paintings and great portraits. Do come and enjoy being surprised by our future stars.
Private View 6.30 - 8.30 pm Monday 10th July Be one of the first to see the talent of our art students
Private View 6.30 - 8.30 pm Monday 10th July Be one of the first to see the talent of our art students
Vibrant Art with Glass and Ink by Eva Edery and Julia Holt
27th June - 8th July
EVA EDERY, Glass Artist
Eva Edery is an international glass artist based in NW London. She uses glass throughout her collections to create a world of imagination, colour, vibrancy, shapes and textures. Her creations provide a unique and enlightened touch. Eva draws her inspiration from the beauty of life and nature that surrounds us. She creates pieces for a wide range of exhibitions as well as private and corporate commissions.
JULIA HOLT, Painter
Julia Holt lives and works in Hertfordshire and completed her Fine Art Degree with First Class Honours at the University of Hertfordshire in Hatfield.
Julia's work focuses on the physicality of mark making. The paintings go through a progression using different medias that span from ink to pastel and oils. Absorptions plays a key part in the process which allows the inks to form natural patterns and for different paint mediums to interact, generating an uncertainty which feels lively and energised.
Eva Edery is an international glass artist based in NW London. She uses glass throughout her collections to create a world of imagination, colour, vibrancy, shapes and textures. Her creations provide a unique and enlightened touch. Eva draws her inspiration from the beauty of life and nature that surrounds us. She creates pieces for a wide range of exhibitions as well as private and corporate commissions.
JULIA HOLT, Painter
Julia Holt lives and works in Hertfordshire and completed her Fine Art Degree with First Class Honours at the University of Hertfordshire in Hatfield.
Julia's work focuses on the physicality of mark making. The paintings go through a progression using different medias that span from ink to pastel and oils. Absorptions plays a key part in the process which allows the inks to form natural patterns and for different paint mediums to interact, generating an uncertainty which feels lively and energised.
Summer in the City
1st June - 24th June
Open Submissions Exhibition on the theme of 'Summer in the City', all mediums from local artists.
Chalfont Artists Spring Show
16th - 27th May
'Chalfont Artists' are an arts group that have worked together for over eight years, meeting weekly at the Scout Hut, Chalfont St. Peter. Their fine art outcomes are richly diverse in both intention and media. The sessions are led by Simon Brewster MA.
A Painter, a Printer and a Potter
3rd - 13th May
Three Chilterns-based artists, Amanda Curbishley (a painter), Nathalie Pymm (a printer) and Elaine Wells (a potter, recently seen on BBC's Great Pottery Throwdown) show their latest work.
Spirit of the Dance
18th - 29th April
This exhibition is a celebration of dance, with a particular focus on dance within the context of worship. This dance uses creative and contemporary movement along with banners and flags. The exhibition captures the movement, spirit and richness of colour of this expression.
Vanessa Wylie: mixed media and acrylics
Candy Hadler: watercolours
Yasmina Pordgorski: photography
Penny Howes: textiles
Julie Ann Wrathall : encaustic wax
Deborah Hopson -Wolpe: ceramics
Claudia Ashley- Brown: Perspex art
Vanessa Wylie: mixed media and acrylics
Candy Hadler: watercolours
Yasmina Pordgorski: photography
Penny Howes: textiles
Julie Ann Wrathall : encaustic wax
Deborah Hopson -Wolpe: ceramics
Claudia Ashley- Brown: Perspex art
Korn-u-Kopia
28th March - 15th April
Paintings by Sally Bostock
Prints by Luci Hausman
Fabrics by Sally Stocker
Ceramics by Carol Read , Richard Ballantyne, Jeremy White, Chantal Fordham and Yvonne Cornes
Prints by Luci Hausman
Fabrics by Sally Stocker
Ceramics by Carol Read , Richard Ballantyne, Jeremy White, Chantal Fordham and Yvonne Cornes
Our Journey with Greene by Bodenpress Printmakers
13th - 25th March
A literary themed exhibition. Each contributing artist has read a Graham Greene novel and intepreted it using any medium within Printmaking in their own artistic style.
http://www.bodenpress.co.uk/
http://www.bodenpress.co.uk/
Paintings by Emma Franc
28th February - 11th March
Paintings by Emma Franc with Ceramics and Jewellery by guest artists.
Originally from Berkhamsted, Emma studied her MA Painting at Wimbledon School of Art which is known for its links with the Theatre. Emma has exhibited widely and has been shortlisted for several prestigious painting prizes leading to showings at Christie's, the Mall Gallery and more recently the Strand Gallery where she won 2nd prize. She is now living in St Albans and last year she was artist is residence at the Abbey Theatre, St Albans. Continuing with the theme of the stage this series of work focuses on some masked theatre incorporated into dance, specifically ballet. Working in mainly working in oil on board she creates thought provoking atmospheric work. Engaging with the energy and raw lighting of the stage her work often draws this light back into dark spaces with drawing always being the most important element.
www.emmafranc.co.uk
Originally from Berkhamsted, Emma studied her MA Painting at Wimbledon School of Art which is known for its links with the Theatre. Emma has exhibited widely and has been shortlisted for several prestigious painting prizes leading to showings at Christie's, the Mall Gallery and more recently the Strand Gallery where she won 2nd prize. She is now living in St Albans and last year she was artist is residence at the Abbey Theatre, St Albans. Continuing with the theme of the stage this series of work focuses on some masked theatre incorporated into dance, specifically ballet. Working in mainly working in oil on board she creates thought provoking atmospheric work. Engaging with the energy and raw lighting of the stage her work often draws this light back into dark spaces with drawing always being the most important element.
www.emmafranc.co.uk
From Mountains to the Sea
21st - 25th February
Wild life photographer Peter Whitehead and water colourist Martin Beaton show a collection of wildlife and landscapes images celebrating the natural world.
See www.landscapeartandimages.com for more of Martin and Peter's work
See www.landscapeartandimages.com for more of Martin and Peter's work
The Common
7th - 18th February
An exhibition of woodcuts, drawings and maps by Jenny Thorburn, resulting from time spent on Berkhamsted Common.
http://www.jennythorburn.me.uk
http://www.jennythorburn.me.uk
Unframed
17th January - 4th February
A collection of work from Niki Bell’s students at Berkhamsted Arts & Crafts. The work shown is a dynamic collection from both the adults and children’s sessions.
http://www.bacshop.co.uk/
http://www.bacshop.co.uk/
Prints & Presents
23rd November - 7th January 2017
Christmas Open Submissions 2016 ‘The Perfect Gift – Paintings, Prints Pots and Presents’ - Includes a wide range of local artists in many mediums including, ceramics, paintings, textiles, jewellery, weaving, print, photography. Come and find the perfect gift for Christmas.
Andrew Dixon - Recent Paintings 2015 - 2016
15th - 19th November (closing at 4pm)
With Ceramics by Liz Finerty
Textile Expressions
1st - 12th November
‘Textile Expressions’ was formed in 1991 by a group of textile artists committed to promoting and raising awareness in current embroidery.
Contemporary embroidery and textiles today invites artists to use a wide range of media. This embraces: papier maché; mono-filament; batik; felt; tapestry; slashed, stitched, painted and collaged layers of fabric and paper, often using computer graphics as a starting point. ‘Embroidery’ is not what it was!
Each artist has created and developed, over time, their own individual approach and method of working, to produce wall hangings and framed or sculptural pieces. The work may be purely decorative, express feelings, convey a message or ask questions. It may draw on the past, present or future and may indeed contain one of several ideas. The work of the group is wide ranging and encompasses a broad, rich and diverse area.
Members: Pat Clayton Shelagh O’Gorman
Audrey Critchley Christine Rollitt
Jill Diane Izzard Margaret Talbot
Christine Jenner Carole Waddle
Joan Lamb Joan West
Rosemary Watts Dianne Whyte
Contemporary embroidery and textiles today invites artists to use a wide range of media. This embraces: papier maché; mono-filament; batik; felt; tapestry; slashed, stitched, painted and collaged layers of fabric and paper, often using computer graphics as a starting point. ‘Embroidery’ is not what it was!
Each artist has created and developed, over time, their own individual approach and method of working, to produce wall hangings and framed or sculptural pieces. The work may be purely decorative, express feelings, convey a message or ask questions. It may draw on the past, present or future and may indeed contain one of several ideas. The work of the group is wide ranging and encompasses a broad, rich and diverse area.
Members: Pat Clayton Shelagh O’Gorman
Audrey Critchley Christine Rollitt
Jill Diane Izzard Margaret Talbot
Christine Jenner Carole Waddle
Joan Lamb Joan West
Rosemary Watts Dianne Whyte
Brenda Hurley Contemporary Artist and Friends
18th - 29th October
Brenda Hurley is a local artist from Tring. She started her career as a dress designer in West Yorkshire and ran her own manufacturing workshop. In 1994 she decided to take up the brush and canvas, this exhibition will reflect some of the ideas and observations she has made recently. The exhibition will cover a variety of work in Acrylic and Mixed media.
Brenda will be joined by Val Zec a local ceramicist from Ashley Green and Lucie Smith a glass and bead jeweller from Aylesbury.
Lucie Smith learnt glass bead and jewellery making by watching and talking to other people and lots of experimentation. She is passionate about glass as her heritage is in the Czech Republic where glass making has a long history. Her work is mainly inspired by the natural world.
Val Zec - My original inspiration came from a fascination for the sea, eroded surfaces and textures which led me to create my own glazes. I make simple bold forms mostly thrown or coiled which allows me to experiment with various textures, colours and glazes. I also make a range of wheel thrown functional high fired ceramics which includes vases, mugs, bowls, teapots suitable for everyday use as well as large hand built pieces which express changing ideas."
Brenda will be joined by Val Zec a local ceramicist from Ashley Green and Lucie Smith a glass and bead jeweller from Aylesbury.
Lucie Smith learnt glass bead and jewellery making by watching and talking to other people and lots of experimentation. She is passionate about glass as her heritage is in the Czech Republic where glass making has a long history. Her work is mainly inspired by the natural world.
Val Zec - My original inspiration came from a fascination for the sea, eroded surfaces and textures which led me to create my own glazes. I make simple bold forms mostly thrown or coiled which allows me to experiment with various textures, colours and glazes. I also make a range of wheel thrown functional high fired ceramics which includes vases, mugs, bowls, teapots suitable for everyday use as well as large hand built pieces which express changing ideas."
al dente - never overdone
11th - 15th October
Mixed media exhibition from Berkhamsted artists Maud Eager, Denise Purdy and Margie Harris, with special guest Enrico Gobi
'Come up and see my etchings’ - Original prints by Boden Press Artists
26th September - 8th October
A group of print makers from Boden Press print studio in Chesham.
Collagraph and monoprint by Julie Brown
Turning point II by Helen Boden- Linocut and chine colle
Whorl by Helen Boden- Collagraph and monoprint
www.bodenpress.co.uk
Collagraph and monoprint by Julie Brown
Turning point II by Helen Boden- Linocut and chine colle
Whorl by Helen Boden- Collagraph and monoprint
www.bodenpress.co.uk
Berkhamsted School
20th - 24th September
Students from Berkhamsted School exhibit and curate their work
From Sea to Shore
6th - 17th September
Invited local artists exhibit their current work, ranging from paintings, glass, ceramics, textiles and jewellery.
Linda Cavill's work aims to capture a sense of place: the colour, texture, atmosphere and light. She is particularly interested in buildings whether in cities,towns or coastal villages.
Jenny Hoole's passion has been enveloping form with fluid colour and pattern, flowing with the body to produce subtle drape effects.........for fleeting moments.
Jane Miller is a self-taught artist living in Wendover, Bucks, where she strives to produce different pieces of artwork.
Pamela McMenamin is interested in painting in its simplest form; of representing colour and space. However, her work also critically analyses perception and illusion as well as exploring what is reality, sometimes critiquing the very mediums being used, often deconstructing and revealing the process.
Sarah Rooms-Heaphy creates hand crafted ceramics. Work ranges from delicate porcelain vessel, decorative framed ceramics, porcelain with candle-light, plus large wall panels.
Liz Hobson, Susan James Dean, Jane Norman, Kate Wilkinsons and Kirsteen Holuj
Linda Cavill's work aims to capture a sense of place: the colour, texture, atmosphere and light. She is particularly interested in buildings whether in cities,towns or coastal villages.
Jenny Hoole's passion has been enveloping form with fluid colour and pattern, flowing with the body to produce subtle drape effects.........for fleeting moments.
Jane Miller is a self-taught artist living in Wendover, Bucks, where she strives to produce different pieces of artwork.
Pamela McMenamin is interested in painting in its simplest form; of representing colour and space. However, her work also critically analyses perception and illusion as well as exploring what is reality, sometimes critiquing the very mediums being used, often deconstructing and revealing the process.
Sarah Rooms-Heaphy creates hand crafted ceramics. Work ranges from delicate porcelain vessel, decorative framed ceramics, porcelain with candle-light, plus large wall panels.
Liz Hobson, Susan James Dean, Jane Norman, Kate Wilkinsons and Kirsteen Holuj
Laura Boswell - English Landscape Japanese Aesthetic
16th August - 3rd September
Local printmaker Laura Boswell will be exhibiting her linocut and Japanese watercolour woodblock prints in her solo show from 16th August to 3rd September. Her work focuses on the rural landscape and among other work she will be showing her woodblock series ‘Views of Buckinghamshire’ and her recent linocuts of local birds which will form part of an arts trail on the Grand Union Canal at Milton Keynes.
Trained in Japan, Laura Boswell is a printmaker specialising in rural landscape, working in classical Japanese water based woodblock and reduction linocut. She divides her time between printmaking, teaching, writing a monthly page for Artist and Illustrators Magazine and public art. She has work in national collections including the House of Lords and the National Library of Wales.
www.lauraboswell.co.uk
Trained in Japan, Laura Boswell is a printmaker specialising in rural landscape, working in classical Japanese water based woodblock and reduction linocut. She divides her time between printmaking, teaching, writing a monthly page for Artist and Illustrators Magazine and public art. She has work in national collections including the House of Lords and the National Library of Wales.
www.lauraboswell.co.uk
Natasha Lien - Sensations of Colour, Petra
9th - 13th August
En plein air paintings of Petra, Jordan plus local paintings, drawings and prints
Private View
Wednesday 10th August
6pm - 8.30pm
Private View
Wednesday 10th August
6pm - 8.30pm
Jane Muir & Deborah Hopson Wolpe
26th July - 6th August
Jane Muir an artist from Wendover, started her career in mosaics and has recently moved into paintings and prints. This exhibition will be showing her new work. Jane's work will be accompanied with ceramics by Deborah Hopson Wolpe from Olney.
"To counteract the constraints of working to commission in architectural mosaic work I began printmaking as a form of personal expression. The collographs developed in parallel with my mosaic work, both having a strong emphasis on texture. Now my print making has become a means to make experimental images, based on qualities arising from the study of music, folklore and the forest." Jane Muir
"I make functional work and always hope it gets used. The weight distribution and balance are important to me as well as the surface’s feel and colour. I like a dark looking piece to surprise by being light in weight or a bowl to have its weight unexpectedly in the rim rather than the base and make the user want to pick it up" Deborah Hopson Wolpe
"To counteract the constraints of working to commission in architectural mosaic work I began printmaking as a form of personal expression. The collographs developed in parallel with my mosaic work, both having a strong emphasis on texture. Now my print making has become a means to make experimental images, based on qualities arising from the study of music, folklore and the forest." Jane Muir
"I make functional work and always hope it gets used. The weight distribution and balance are important to me as well as the surface’s feel and colour. I like a dark looking piece to surprise by being light in weight or a bowl to have its weight unexpectedly in the rim rather than the base and make the user want to pick it up" Deborah Hopson Wolpe
Taking Textiles Further
19th - 23rd July
We are a group of embroiderers and textile artists who meet at Missenden Abbey in Great Missenden three times a year.
Members of the group are encouraged to explore ideas and methods of design that may be outside their usual range, and to critique their own and others within this supportive environment where peer support is part of the workshop time. Drawing is a key activity and is practised in its widest forms giving learners a very individual and original starting point. There is an expectation that learners will also take a keen interest in contextural issues and the wider sphere of textile practice.
This exhibition shows work made in response to a theme of TEXT, where participants have applied this to their own personal subjects and textile specialisms. We have explored making our own tools for drawing and writing text, graffiti, using text as pattern and texture with and without backgrounds.
Members of the group are encouraged to explore ideas and methods of design that may be outside their usual range, and to critique their own and others within this supportive environment where peer support is part of the workshop time. Drawing is a key activity and is practised in its widest forms giving learners a very individual and original starting point. There is an expectation that learners will also take a keen interest in contextural issues and the wider sphere of textile practice.
This exhibition shows work made in response to a theme of TEXT, where participants have applied this to their own personal subjects and textile specialisms. We have explored making our own tools for drawing and writing text, graffiti, using text as pattern and texture with and without backgrounds.
Chesham Grammar
12th - 16th July
A Level Art and Photography students from Chesham Grammar School exhibit and curate their work.
Journeys Through Light and Colour - by 6 ArtWorks Artists
28th June - 9th July
These are Hertfordshire artists who have been working and exhibiting together since they studied fine art at UH in the 80's and 90’s.
For this exhibition, they have brought together work that, although different in style and subject, demonstrates a shared sense of energy and life.
www.artworks4you.co.uk
For this exhibition, they have brought together work that, although different in style and subject, demonstrates a shared sense of energy and life.
www.artworks4you.co.uk
Enrico Gobbi - Viaggio nella vita / Journey into life
21st - 25th June
www.enricogobbi.co.uk
"People live for years and years, but in reality they only really live for a small part of these years... the years when they manage to do what they were destined to. Then they are happy. The rest of the time is time spent waiting and remembering." A. Baricco - "Questa storia"
"People live for years and years, but in reality they only really live for a small part of these years... the years when they manage to do what they were destined to. Then they are happy. The rest of the time is time spent waiting and remembering." A. Baricco - "Questa storia"
Open Exhibition - Summer Fiesta
25th May - 18th June
This exhibition has a great selection of work from local artists, which depicts the theme of summer as a time of celebration. We have a wide range of innovative interpretations including wall-hung paintings, drawings, printmaking, mixed media, textiles and ceramics.
Bringing in the May - Susan Erskine-Jones, Kate Milner, Victoria Johns and Sarah Russell
10th May - 21st May
Working in Printmaking, Painting and Mixed Media. Four diverse and talented artists responding to the the weather, nature and the changing world around them.
Victoria Johns - Victoria’s art practice centres around abstract mixed media painting and printmaking. Currently her work interprets maps, aerial views, journeys and the changes in our landscapes. She focuses on the space, shapes, textures and line she sees as defining.”
Sarah Russell - Using printmaking and painting, Sarah reacts to the landscape and weather in an intuitive and semi-abstract way. The work she produces is expressive and vibrant.
Kate Milner - I think of gardens as being special places fenced off and protected from the outside world; places where wild nature is tamed and organised, where a person, or group of people can impose their own view of what nature should be. Of course the control is an illusion, nature is always fighting to reasserts itself.
Susan Erskine-Jones - My paintings and prints explore my interest in the delicacy, the chance and the strength that I see in the world around me.
Victoria Johns - Victoria’s art practice centres around abstract mixed media painting and printmaking. Currently her work interprets maps, aerial views, journeys and the changes in our landscapes. She focuses on the space, shapes, textures and line she sees as defining.”
Sarah Russell - Using printmaking and painting, Sarah reacts to the landscape and weather in an intuitive and semi-abstract way. The work she produces is expressive and vibrant.
Kate Milner - I think of gardens as being special places fenced off and protected from the outside world; places where wild nature is tamed and organised, where a person, or group of people can impose their own view of what nature should be. Of course the control is an illusion, nature is always fighting to reasserts itself.
Susan Erskine-Jones - My paintings and prints explore my interest in the delicacy, the chance and the strength that I see in the world around me.
Spring Surge - Sue Graham & Friends
26th April - 7th May
Painter Sue Graham and Ceramists Connie Fielder, Kay Waite, Holly Inglis and Textile artist Katy Swift are bringing Spring to the gallery, with this wonderful exhibition.
Sue Graham - I am interested in many diverse ideas and experiences; this range of interests is reflected in the varied subjects of my paintings. This might be the effects of humankind on the natural world; birdsong; landscape; urban scenes; emotional resonances; place; weather. The past few years I have been working primarily in acrylics, with occasional forays into oils. I have recently been experimenting with mixed media. My style is evolving towards being more expressive and semi-abstract.
Kay Waite - My work is both porcelain and bone china which are used to create sculptural forms and more traditional shaped vessels with the emphasis on translucency. Originally inspired by nest like forms in the natural world I use translucent materials to echo the fragility of early life. Textiles are used for imprinting, as in the knitted nest, while other organic materials are used, such as leaves of various types, to re-emphasise the organic content. Some pieces are edged with gold to highlight the preciousness that nests can hold.
Katy Swift - My inspiration can come from anywhere - an image, a word or phrase - but it quickly leads to an idea of what colours and textures will express it. Then I start to knit. This will involve a lot of trail and experimentation, as i try combinations, seeing how different the elements si together as the finished piece starts to emerge. For me this process is how i paint. My brushes are my knitting needles, the paints are strips of material, the stitches and texture of the fabric are the brush strokes on the canvas.
Holly Louise Inglis - I am a handbuilding ceramic artist based in High Wycombe. My Abstract Calligraphy Hares are a celebration of form and movement. When translating the drawing into a 3D form I create the lines of the drawings instead of the hare the drawings depict. This method of making was inspired by calligraphy writing that used the lettering to create the silhouette of the object the word was of and the simplistic yet clean lines of cave drawings of Europe and Australia.
Connie Fielder- My work is varied, mainly animals. I use a variety of clays as well as glazes, always amazing myself with their results once the kiln is opened. I belong to various groups such as The Bucks Potters and Sculptures, as well as the Henley and Oxford Arts and Crafts. I have exhibited at some of their venues where I sold several pieces. My next venture is to re create my Porcelain Roses. 2016 is going to be a very busy year as I am taking part in several exhibitions, in various arias.
Open Exhibition of Photography - 'Pattern'
5th - 23rd April
Local photographers have submitted work on the theme of Pattern. This has been interpreted in many ways!
Threads of Time 2: Archives Inspiring New Art in Hertfordshire
7th March - 2nd April
In October 2014 Hertfordshire Archives & Local Studies were delighted to welcome nearly 50 people to take part in Threads of Time 2. In this creative project, now in its second year, professional and amateur artists were invited to respond to the papers of the Delmé-Radcliffe family of Hitchin Priory in order to produce a new exhibition.
The project began with an introduction to this archive and a talk on the Delmé-Radcliffe family and their 400 years at Hitchin Priory. The artists then began to work independently, pursuing their chosen line of research.
At monthly meetings, they discussed their ideas and shared progress updates on their work. Many began sketchbooks in which they experimented with different approaches. A supporting programme of tours to the archive stores and conservation studio, as well as trips to Hitchin Priory and the V&A Clothworkers’ Centre were also arranged.
The work produced is of extraordinary quality and variety, reflecting the Delmé-Radcliffe family’s interests in trade, architecture, landscaping, fashion and beyond. The archive has inspired embroidery, patchwork, tapestry, lacework and weaving. The form of these works has ranged from a convent garden to a camel, laden with treasures from the East.
The project began with an introduction to this archive and a talk on the Delmé-Radcliffe family and their 400 years at Hitchin Priory. The artists then began to work independently, pursuing their chosen line of research.
At monthly meetings, they discussed their ideas and shared progress updates on their work. Many began sketchbooks in which they experimented with different approaches. A supporting programme of tours to the archive stores and conservation studio, as well as trips to Hitchin Priory and the V&A Clothworkers’ Centre were also arranged.
The work produced is of extraordinary quality and variety, reflecting the Delmé-Radcliffe family’s interests in trade, architecture, landscaping, fashion and beyond. The archive has inspired embroidery, patchwork, tapestry, lacework and weaving. The form of these works has ranged from a convent garden to a camel, laden with treasures from the East.
Peter Keegan and Friends
15th February - 5th March
Peter Keegan is an award-winning artist living and working in Buckinghamshire, UK. Working at his studio within the grounds of Claydon House estate, Peter works predominantly in oils, following traditional techniques but using them in a way to depict his subjects in a modern and original style. His aim in portraiture is to always create a painting or drawing that reflects the subject's likeness and personality, as well as capturing those special elements which make the subject truly "them". Peter also paints and exhibits local landscapes noted for their strong use of palette knife work. Peter leads art courses at Missenden Abbey as well as running art demonstrations and workshops for art groups and societies across the UK. Over the past year, Peter has participated in a number of art fairs, festivals and exhibitions, including Art in Action in Oxfordshire. In 2016, Peter is looking forward to launching his own range of courses from his studio at Claydon. Peter is a member of the Visual Images Group, is an elected member of the Buckinghamshire Art Society and writes for Artist & Illustrator magazine.
He is exhibiting alongside five of Bucks leading ceramic artists - Carol Read, Jeremy White, Chris Inder, Chantal Fordham, and Richard Ballantyne with jewellery from Lesley Pollock.
"My work considers the ability of objects to symbolise identity, memory, tradition and culture. I enjoy the challenges and rewards of working in porcelain and aim to create pieces that are tactile and beautiful as well as functional, providing a distinctive collection for the table and home".
Chris Inder
"I have worked mostly in silver with a few accents of gold. My work has a lot of natural objects as design ideas and textured surfaces like my leaf cuffs and earrings. I have loads more ideas and objects such as tiny fish pendants and otter bangles as well as a new line in “Wave rings” which reveal a pattern of waves on the shank and large stones on the top of the ring set in 18kt gold".
Lesley Pollock
He is exhibiting alongside five of Bucks leading ceramic artists - Carol Read, Jeremy White, Chris Inder, Chantal Fordham, and Richard Ballantyne with jewellery from Lesley Pollock.
"My work considers the ability of objects to symbolise identity, memory, tradition and culture. I enjoy the challenges and rewards of working in porcelain and aim to create pieces that are tactile and beautiful as well as functional, providing a distinctive collection for the table and home".
Chris Inder
"I have worked mostly in silver with a few accents of gold. My work has a lot of natural objects as design ideas and textured surfaces like my leaf cuffs and earrings. I have loads more ideas and objects such as tiny fish pendants and otter bangles as well as a new line in “Wave rings” which reveal a pattern of waves on the shank and large stones on the top of the ring set in 18kt gold".
Lesley Pollock
Berkhamsted Arts & Crafts Life Group
9th - 13th February
An exhibition of work by the Berkhamsted Arts & Crafts Life Group. Curated by Mike Burnett and Denise Purdy.
Astley Cooper School
2nd - 6th February
'Identity -Who Am I?' is our fascinating new exhibition of work by students from Astley Cooper School, Hemel Hempstead.
Based on visits to the Medieval Wall paintings in Piccotts End Hemel Hempstead
Based on visits to the Medieval Wall paintings in Piccotts End Hemel Hempstead
Parndon Mill Studios
13th - 30th January
Painting, Sculpture and Print by Artists from Parndon Mill Studios, Harlow
Deep + Crisp + Even
18th November - 8th January 2016
A Christmas Open Exhibition of Painting, Printmaking, Ceramics, Textiles, Jewellery, Glass
Andrew Dixon & Liz Finerty - Paintings Plein Air & Ceramics
10th November - 14th November
"Painting from nature necessitates the translation of the visual stimulus through to paintbrush and canvas allowing for impulse, rapid consideration, refinement of mark making, the overlaying of paint layers (or otherwise) and the interpretation of colour. Painting "en plein air" provides rewards and pitfalls. The very act of producing an image within a specified time and dealing with the changing weather and light conditions is a challenge and forces one to be "in the moment". There is no time to waste, no standing back for minutes on end to consider.
Time is of the essence and spontaneity reigns" Andrew Dixon
Time is of the essence and spontaneity reigns" Andrew Dixon
Liz uses various types of clay and techniques, to produce a series of non functional work exploring the themes of childhood memories and the joy of collecting found objects. The pieces are raku or smoked fired with additions of photographic images and acrylic inks.
'3 Dimensions' - Textiles, Painting and Jewellery
3rd November - 7th November
Arlene Shawcross
Arlene creates wall pieces and sculptural pieces for interiors and also beautiful individual pieces to wear. Arlene often works on a soluble ground which is then dissolved away to create beautiful lace effects. She also hand dyes silk velvet which she uses to create brooches, buttons and scarves. Recently she has begun to combine stitching with reclaimed glass.
Christine Rollitt
Christine Rollitt works in textiles and at the same time maintains her interest in painting, staying true to her background in Fine Art. Her work focuses on significant people, places and events, telling a narrative in stitch and threads. She finds when combining painted areas with stitch that her work fulfils her need to express in both mediums.
Daphne Giles
After many years working as a textile artist, Daphne decided that she wanted to move on from the “soft” techniques of textiles to the “hard” techniques of jewellery making and silversmithing. She finds that jewellery making and silversmithing link up perfectly with her fashion work, allowing her to produce 3 dimensional adornment and accessories to match stylish and interesting clothes. She loves hunting down interesting and beautiful yarns and semi-precious stones, which then inspire her work
Arlene creates wall pieces and sculptural pieces for interiors and also beautiful individual pieces to wear. Arlene often works on a soluble ground which is then dissolved away to create beautiful lace effects. She also hand dyes silk velvet which she uses to create brooches, buttons and scarves. Recently she has begun to combine stitching with reclaimed glass.
Christine Rollitt
Christine Rollitt works in textiles and at the same time maintains her interest in painting, staying true to her background in Fine Art. Her work focuses on significant people, places and events, telling a narrative in stitch and threads. She finds when combining painted areas with stitch that her work fulfils her need to express in both mediums.
Daphne Giles
After many years working as a textile artist, Daphne decided that she wanted to move on from the “soft” techniques of textiles to the “hard” techniques of jewellery making and silversmithing. She finds that jewellery making and silversmithing link up perfectly with her fashion work, allowing her to produce 3 dimensional adornment and accessories to match stylish and interesting clothes. She loves hunting down interesting and beautiful yarns and semi-precious stones, which then inspire her work
Illustration Invited Artists - 'Storytime'
13th October - 31st October
An exhibition of illustration, including work by father and daughter, TV artist Tony Hart and daughter Carolyn Ross.
Paintings by Jenny Thorburn
Jenny Thornburn - The Good, the Bad and the Ugly
October 2015
A collaboration of work from a poet and illustrator, which began 20 years ago.
The exhibition brings together 30 limited edition hand-bound and cased books containing 30 illustrated poems. 36 framed original illustrations and some smaller hand made books of the poems and badges.
The exhibition brings together 30 limited edition hand-bound and cased books containing 30 illustrated poems. 36 framed original illustrations and some smaller hand made books of the poems and badges.
Mick Miller - Ship-Wrecked
September 2015
Open Studios
September 2015
Alison Berthelsen - Jewellery, Jean Langdon - ceramics, John Durham - painting, Ian Broadway - photography, Jenny Hoole - glass and
Sophie Roberts - drawing painting printmaking.
More information can be seen at www.hvaf.org.uk
Sophie Roberts - drawing painting printmaking.
More information can be seen at www.hvaf.org.uk
Open Studios Preview & Charity Sale
August 2015
In the run up to this year’s Herts Open Studios in September a group of local, Dacorum based, artists, in collaboration with the Upstairs Gallery in Berkhamsted, is holding a charity sale of original small artworks. The proceeds of this charity sale will be donated to DENS, a Dacorum based charity which helps provide a safe and friendly environment to vulnerable and homeless people within the Dacorum area.
The artists’ work varies in discipline and includes paintings, encaustic wax, textiles, glass, photography, ceramics, print, jewellery and sculpture.
This exhibition and charity sale will give the public a unique opportunity to see the work of many local artists and to meet several of them prior to the opening of their studios to the general public during the period 5th – 27th September.
The artists’ work varies in discipline and includes paintings, encaustic wax, textiles, glass, photography, ceramics, print, jewellery and sculpture.
This exhibition and charity sale will give the public a unique opportunity to see the work of many local artists and to meet several of them prior to the opening of their studios to the general public during the period 5th – 27th September.
Connie Flynn
August 2015
Connie is an established Textile artist and Teacher and has recently finished a residency at the lighthouse in Shetland and is now back in Hertfordshire.
Pots & Patterns
July 2015
Paintings by Pete Greening and Ceramics by Jean Langdon
Chesham Grammar A Level Students
July 2015
An exhibition of work produced and curated by the students
Berkhamsted School A Level Students
July 2015
An exhibition of work produced and curated by the students
Discovery
July 2015
A summer open submissions exhibition from a selection of local artists with the theme of 'Discovery'.
Through the Glass
May 2015
Four photographers bring traditional film and darkroom methods together with contemporary digital work. Chris Brainwood uses film and is showing a series of dark atmospheric monochrome images entitled Along the Towpath. John Humphrey’s work explores the notion of white using digital techniques. Bob Marshall produces intriguing images using darkroom and alternative wet processing techniques. Neil Proctor is showing colourful and curious street photography.
Six glass artists ranging through jewellery, architectural glass, vases and bowls to abstract sculputral work and glass for the garden and showcasing a range of techniques. Artists are John Eastwood, Jenny Hoole,Teri Knowles, Peter Lardi, Claudia Phipps and Ewa Wawrzyniac.
Six glass artists ranging through jewellery, architectural glass, vases and bowls to abstract sculputral work and glass for the garden and showcasing a range of techniques. Artists are John Eastwood, Jenny Hoole,Teri Knowles, Peter Lardi, Claudia Phipps and Ewa Wawrzyniac.
Lasting Impressions
April 2015
Twelve printmakers from Boden Press. The work includes Linocuts, Screenprints, Etchings, Drypoints, Monoprints and Collagraphs.
New Beginnings
March / April 2015
A spring open submissions exhibition from a selection of local artists
Paintings, Ceramics & Jewellery by Invited Artists
February 2015
Artists included: Christine Bass, Simon Brewster, Stephen Charlton, Andrew Dixon, Brenda Hurley, Jean Langdon, Benedicte Newton, Rosemary Pettet, Denise Purdy, Clarissa Robertson, Chris Sims, Kay Waite, Kate Wilkinson.
Shetland by Connie Flynn
January 2015
Connie Flynn has been working in Textiles and Stained Glass for over twenty years. She is fascinated by colour, texture, shapes and form. She continues to explore and experiment in a variety of techniques and materials, playing with scale and working in both 2D and 3D. This exhibition was her latest work from her residency and college work in the Shetland Isles. See a review of the exhibition here.
Something Special
December 2014
A Christmas exhibition of paintings, textiles, ceramics and various gifts from local artists.
Paul Rowbottom & Andrew Dixon
November 2014
Andrew Dixon - "Live and work in Hertfordshire, painting mostly in oil and sometimes acrylic. Trying to capture the moment forces an immediate response to rapidly and ever changing conditions, light, colour, weather etc. My intention is for spontaneity in painting "en plein air", attempting to capture a feeling or a moment within a limited amount of time."
Paul Rowbottom - "This new work of unadorned simplicity, combining limestone from the 'Jurassic coast' and forged iron, takes the ancient symbol of eternity and suggests a paradoxical state of gravity 'defying' yet earth bound stone at the interface of the temporal world; anchored yet supported by forged iron. A boundless form in precarious equilibrium".
Paul Rowbottom - "This new work of unadorned simplicity, combining limestone from the 'Jurassic coast' and forged iron, takes the ancient symbol of eternity and suggests a paradoxical state of gravity 'defying' yet earth bound stone at the interface of the temporal world; anchored yet supported by forged iron. A boundless form in precarious equilibrium".
Landmarks
November / October 2014
An open submission exhibition, with a wide variety of different approaches and mediums from local artists.
The Berko Big Draw
October 2014
The Big Draw takes place countrywide every year. Our theme was Berkhamsted - It's Your Town.
All Sorts & Doily Mixtures
September 2014
An exhibition of recent work from Pamela McMenamin and Patricia Rozental.
Pamela's work is concerned with the interplay of colour and form, sometimes critiquing the genre or mediums being used, often de-constructing and revealing the process.
Patricia's work is in a variety of media and methods, highlighting everyday familiar and prosaic objects, places and events.
Pamela's work is concerned with the interplay of colour and form, sometimes critiquing the genre or mediums being used, often de-constructing and revealing the process.
Patricia's work is in a variety of media and methods, highlighting everyday familiar and prosaic objects, places and events.
Haptic Art
September 2014
An exhibition of mixed media and textile art called HapticArt, created by a talented group of textile artists who met at East Berkshire College, Windsor. Haptic means non verbal communication, so the work ranges from the natural world to social and historical themes.
