David Brown Mirrors: The passing of a lovely artist

It is sad news in the gallery today. I have just learned that one of our artists has passed away. I am always affected by this kind of new, as I'm sure most people are. I always think of our artists very fondly as a family, and so it is with a heavy heart that I learned of David Brown's death.

David Brown Mirrors

David Brown (not to be confused with the similarly named, Davy Brown - painter, also one of our artists and still very much alive) has exhibited his lovely little mirrors with us here at Galleria Luti for years now. There has rarely been a time when there hasn't been a copper or pewter mirror adorning our walls. They have been ever popular as gifts.... I myself have given many friends David Brown birthday presents. I also know some customers who have several pieces made in the Otago Studio where David worked alongside his son Michael for many years. Nouveau design was often incorporated into the mirror finish as were gemstones and the occassional more exotic embellishment.
I spoke to Michael today, and I am comforted that David's legacy will live on through him.... and hopefully in the near future we will have some Michael Brown mirrors here in exhibition. On one of David's last visits to see me at the gallery, he brough some of Michael's work and I was pleased to see the high standard and design flare of David's influence shining in Michael's work. He was taught very well indeed.
Read more about David on his page here.

Art appreciation and easter eggs

Free eggs (while they last!)

It has been an absolutely glorious easter weekend and the sun has made it's first real impact of the year, by shining brightly and warming up not only Callander but everyone's spirits with it.

I had slightly over estimated how many chocolate eggs we would need for an egg hunt for my 3 and 1 year olds, so have manys a surplus of easter treats which I will be giving to art lovers in the gallery today for one day only, while stocks last. I can imagine there could be nothing better than munching on chocolate and looking at lovely art at the same time. And to cap it all off, the sun is beautiful again today. Just bliss!

Taking photos of paintings - my constant battle

The importance of a good photo can not be undersitmated.

Before varnishing

They say that a picture tells a thousand words, and never a truer word has been said than when considering paintings.

After varnishing and framing

When artwork is your picture subject, however, getting a good photo of the painting can be the difference between allowing the observer to be transported into the artists’ world, and a disappointing photo of amature-ish art. My main struggle is photogaphing paintings which have already been varnished and framed, particularly when behind glass. Not only do I then have to battle with my own reflection, but also with the many windows and lights it takes to properly light the painting, but also the added glare and shine from carnish makes a true representation nigh impossible. Of course, I do my best, but indeed the best intentions often result in sub-standard photography, and more often than not, does not do the artists’ work justice.
The solution is simple. Photograph work in good light in the studio, pre-varnishing and before framing. Easy peasy.

George Birrell, Artist. New work.

I have already fallen in love with the George Birrell paintings that have just been delivered. 

Qualified at Glasgow School of Art, George is well known for his characteristic interpretations of the architecture of Scottish east coast harbour villages. 

 Working in both oil and mixed media he uses both contrasting colours to emphasise line and pattern and monochromes for subtle interpretations of tone, depth and weather conditions. 

A treat to have in exhibition!

Ken Davis

Have the Blues got a hold on you?  Check out Ken's painting!

Peter Luti Jigsaw Postcard and Facebook

Have you visited us on facebook yet?
If not I strongly suggest you do, as we have a fantastic prize for one lucky facebook-ee.

This fun and quirky Peter Luti design Jigsaw postcard! A witty way to send a note to a loved one or friend. Visit facebook and comment on the photo to be in with a chance of winning.

Marsha

Colin Ian Christie - new original paintings an unbelievable £45 each

We've had the pleasure of showing Colin Christie's work for years, and now have a brand new batch of delights...

 It always amazes me about the diversity in not only subject matter, but medium and technique as well.

Still distinctly 'Christie' in nature, Colin's pieces that we show concentrate on landscape, still-life and beach scenes in oils, watercolour and acrylic, but I've just done a wee bit of googling and found other subjects that Colin frequently paints too, like ballet dancing.

What a talent!

This gorgeous display (and others) of Colin's work is in the gallery at the moment, but I am pretty certain we will not have them long as the delightful little 4' x 4' pieces are an absolute snip at just £45 each.

It's not often you can find quality original paintings for that price! Check out the website for more outstanding Scottish Art.
Marsha

Scottish contemporary art at it's best!

 Well, that's me (Marsha) officially back to work - albeit not as often as I used to..... I had forgotten how wonderful it is to be surrounded by gorgeous contemporary art all day.

 We have a showcase of Philip Raskin (above) and our old favourite Peter Luti (below, who has a load of fantastic paintings - go dad!).

 Both artists are selling well at the moment so check out the website if you fancy snapping one up!

Marsha

Early summer exhibition - Notti Piu Leggere

Belty in Blanefield by Gordon Wilson

The Shortest Day  by Gordon Wilson

Pete, the Trojan, is slaving away hanging paintings for the new exhibition which opens Saturday 5th May 2012.  We welcome Gordon Wilson, new to the gallery, and welcome back other artists

Name Game

Marsha's baby is Emily Lea (pronounced Lay - ah).  Our next exhibition will feature Gordon Wilson. Can't wait.  Robert Ryan is our artist of the month