Artists bring still life up to date with new look

Apr 14 2009 by Barbara Hodgson, The Journal

Two hugely successful artists ... have demonstrated that still life is very much alive.

STILL Life has been a favourite subject for artists over the ages, and this spring it gets a fresh new look as it’s brought up to date in exhibitions at a Newcastle gallery.

Opus Art in Gosforth is hosting The Season of Still Life, featuring solo shows by two acclaimed artists: Darren Baker and Chris Kettle, who each have a unique approach to combining classical and contemporary influences.

Already up and running at the gallery is Darren Baker: Photographic Realism.

The Yorkshire-based artist, who at the age of 23 was invited to show work at a millennium event in New York, has a distinctive style which builds on themes of architecture and still life and is influenced by both the classical Dutch Masters and the contemporary Realist School.

Also at 23, Baker was appointed official artist of The Professional Footballers’ Association and his commissions have included celebrities such as Lewis Hamilton, Prince Naseem and Jonny Wilkinson – and most recently the Queen.

He is also an official artist for London’s 2012 Olympic Games.

His exhibition runs at Opus until May 4. Then from May 8 until June 8, Chris Kettle: Illusions of Grandeur, takes over.

The Brighton-based artist is known for his subversive approach to still life, and his exhibition takes inspiration from Dutch Masters by reworking classical symbols into his own dark, distinctive style.

The engaging result is both touching and humorous.

Previously, Chris has exhibited at Gstaad, New York, Milan and London.

Don Smith, of Opus Art, said: “As a genre, still life does not receive the attention it deserves.

“Our Season of Still Life, in contrast, celebrates it, showcasing two hugely successful artists who have single-handedly demonstrated that still life is very much alive.”

Opus Gallery in West Avenue, Gosforth, is open from 10am-6pm (not Sundays).