Gallery offers a selection of presents with a difference

Nov 25 2009 The Journal

IDEAS for Christmas presents will be in abundance at an art gallery in Newcastle next month as visitors are encouraged to “Give the Gift of Culture”.

Opus Gallery in Gosforth, Newcastle, is getting into the Christmas spirit via a festive exhibition showcasing an eclectic selection of original paintings by an international crowd of emerging artists, as well as a range of unusual designer gifts.

Artists showing in the exhibition include Chris Kettle, Henrik Simonsen, Josie McCoy, Chris Acheson, Teresa Duck and Karl De Vroomen.

Notorious for his subversive approach to still life, Brighton-based painter Chris Kettle’s recent work draws inspiration from the work of the Dutch Masters. His work returns to Opus following two acclaimed exhibitions at the gallery.

Another Opus stalwart is British artist Josie McCoy, whose paintings of famous actresses and characters from film and television have achieved international recognition.