The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
Astute art:
ENOS Showcase
Anyone suffering withdrawal symptoms from the wonderful East Neuk Open Studios will be delighted to learn that the dark days of winter will be brightened by a Winter Showcase Exhibition of work by many of the ENOS artists this weekend.
According to Sheila Caldwell, ENOS membership secretary: “The Winter Showcase exhibition is in its third year and is a way of reminding people of the numerous talented artists in the area.”
The East Neuk Open Studios event usually takes place in June and is the opportunity for members of the public to visit artists either in their own studios or in a joint venue to see them at work and discuss their art.
“Only those artists who are available at this time exhibit in the Winter Showcase,” continues Sheila. “However, we have 45 out of 54 members taking part, including Louise Stocker from Cellardyke and show stalwarts Philippa
Mitchell, Jake Brown and Dave Smith.” Sheila will also be exhibiting her own beautiful paintings of local scenes.
For Louise, the showcase is a great chance to meet prospective new customers: “I’m thrilled to be attending the ENO Winter Showcase for the third year running with my handmade, upcycled beach art and seaside gifts from East Neuk Beach Crafts,” she says.
“It is a wonderful opportunity for people to shop local and pick up some unique gifts in a friendly, festive setting.”
New to the exhibition are painters Victoria Clarke, Stephen Howard Harrison and Norma Allan, printers Shelly Jupitus and Dawn Hollis.
Debbie Harding will have her crossstitch kits available to purchase, while Caroline Blackler will be displaying watercolour paintings and handmade cards. Shelly Jupitus creates objects and prints which she describes as “experimental in outcome”.
She is pleased to be taking part in her first showcase in Pittenweem and working with other artists. “I’m delighted to be part of ENOS. You often work on your own as an artist, so it’s good to get together with others to share ideas,” she says.
Visitors to the exhibition can expect to see a small display of work from each of the participating artists, including those who produce work in oils, watercolour, wax, pastel and acrylic.
“There are also many crafts on show,” says Sheila,” including needle felting, silver jewellery, gyotaku fish rubbings, cross-stitch and blackwork kits, photography, letterpress printing and much more.”
Many of the artists will be at the hall and available to meet members of the public for a chat over a cup of tea, coffee or some delicious home baking, and “even if it is dull and raining, visitors will be warm and can browse the colourful art and crafts and maybe find some special Christmas gifts”.