With a chill in the air and the promise of colder days to come, we look to sunnier climes this month and revel in the transportive power of fine art.
1. ‘A Fine Afternoon’ by Dianne Flynn. Acrylic on canvas. 16” x 20”. £3,600
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Chosen by: Philip Short, Director
“Dianne’s work carries a soft elegance at its very heart. Almost reminiscent of Dorothea Sharp, this particular painting is an immediate classic, its gentle, sweeping composition drawing you into the nostalgic joy of the scene over and over again. A true testament to the timeless nature and enduring quality of fine art.
2. ‘Bluebells in May, Beverley Woods, Yorkshire’ by Daniel Van der Putten. Oil on panel. 10” x 8”. £2,285
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Chosen by: Alan Short, Director
“This painting is particularly nostalgic for me, as it brings back memories from when I lived in Beverley many years ago. It’s a beautiful little corner of the world, and Daniel has captured the charm and natural wonder of the area just perfectly. His fine attention to detail truly is remarkable.”
3. ‘Cool Drinks in the Shade II’ by Mike Hall. Acrylic on Panel. 12” x 14”. £795
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Chosen by: Deanna Dawkins, Gallery Manager
“I think there has yet to be a single painting of Mike’s that I didn’t immediately fall in love with the second it arrived and this one is no exception. Here, we are invited into a laconic world of warming, dappled sunlight, charming European architecture and of course, cool drinks in the afternoon. Mike’s latest offering is the perfect remedy for the creeping winter chill.”
4. ‘Tulips and Tangerines’ by Terence Clarke. Acrylic on Canvas. 16” x 16”. £1,200
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Chosen by: Kirsty Maclennan, Gallery Assistant.
“Terence’s effusive use of colour, bold composition and use of warped perspectives is impossible to overlook. He pushes the boundaries of still life while paying homage to the great Post-Impressionist painters of the past. ‘Tulips and Tangerines’ is a joyful painting, overflowing with abundance and the bounty of nature. I cannot help but feel uplifted whenever I see it.”
5. ‘Sunlit Afternoon’ by Tina Spratt. Pastel. 9” x 12”. £2,200
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Chosen by: Sarah Pearson Short, Gallery Assistant.
“There is something incredibly intriguing about this piece. Deep in thought with a fixed gaze and completely unaware of anyone around her, there is a real intimacy to the scene, but also the smallest hint of sadness. Or perhaps anticipation? The longer I look, the more questions flood my mind: Who is the woman with her glass so full to the brim? Who is the other glass for? Is she waiting for someone? Or has that someone already been and gone? It’s a beautifully composed piece that asserts Tina’s ability not just as an artist but also a storyteller.”
To find out more of our favourites, visit our York and Harrogate galleries, drop us an email or strike up a conversation with a member of our friendly team on our live chat.
