Abstracts by Angela Charles

I didn't get to as many studios as I would have like during Somerset Open Studios, but I really enjoyed the visits I did make!  The artist, whose work you can see above and below, is Angela Charles.  I went to her delightful home and studio in Crewkerne.

The paintings are in response to the dramatic coastline of the South West - the landscape, light and the sea.  Angela takes regular trips there in her camper van and does pen sketches and writes notes about the location on that particular occasion.

Back at her studio these are interpreted into paintings, which may bear little resemblance to the original sketch, but retains her feelings of being there.  She works in layers of acrylic paint on spray-primed aluminium or wooden boards.  Areas of frantic mark making, contrast with smooth calm sections, giving her wonderful work a sense of peace as well as intensity.

Helen - Contributor

Somerset Open Studios 2016 - Derek Nice

On Sunday I went to the studio of artist, Derek Nice - see above.  It was open as part of Somerset Open Studios.  I have loved his work for many years and have one hanging on my wall at home!  I discovered, via the brochure, that he had moved to Wells so it was easy for me to visit...

His work is influenced by maritime, archaeological themes, myths and legends.  He collects old bits of weathered wood from boatyards and beaches.  He creates works that evoke the sea, out of materials that have been formed by it.  His intention is to find the essence of sea-going life, not the literal interpretation of the subject.  As well as sculptures and assemblages, he also produces beautiful, colourful, collages and paintings, often incorporating text.

The above pictures show his delightful garden, complete with Shepherd's Hut and sculptures.  Also shown are a selection of his latest subject matter - angels.   As many people love and believe in guardian angels, he hopes that his, made from reclaimed wood, will spread a bit of happiness! 

Well worth a visit...

Helen - Contributor

Jo Lucksted - Somerset Arts Week

 Somerset Arts week. S.A.W. starts on 21st September. Jo Lucksted has a studio at 33 Town Street, Shepton Mallet and will be exhibiting her work in Wells.

Jo is a ceramicist who creates figurative sculpture based on religious and classical mythology. View Jo's new collection at....

The Garden Studios, Sadler Street, Wells, Somerset. BA5 2SF
Four artists are showing their very different skills in a beautiful part of Wells. 

The Garden Studios are open 11am - 6pm

21st September to 6th October 

Support our local talented artists
Jo Lucksted