On Friday I visited Charlies Gelato to view the current exhibition Calling Into Form, a group show featuring the work of Andrea Ventling, Jude Nye, and Derek Ventling. The exhibition explores themes of fragility, particularly within the natural environment. It is a beautifully curated show, with over 20 pieces on display and available for purchase.
Andrea’s work is striking, with a vibrant use of colour. I found her large-scale pieces especially engaging to view. A particular favourite of mine was the triptych Zooming Around, a two-panel painting depicting what appears to be sprat, rendered so carefully that it almost resembles a photograph. The pieces were framed in natural wood. Another work I enjoyed was Colourful Dance, a more abstract and expressive interpretation of nature and the ocean.
My favourite of Jude Nye’s works was a small square painting of abstract figures, although I cannot for the life of me recall its title! The figures depict people walking in different directions. The way she has painted the piece is incredible, especially as there is such a sense of movement in the work, which I would imagine would be difficult to create.
Derek’s work focuses on his interest in sand dunes, which I found to be an interesting subject given their ever-changing and impermanent nature. My favourite of his pieces was As The Day Fades. I really love his use of colour and composition. There is such a softness to this piece, and the pink sky marks the end of the day, or the golden hour before night begins.
For those unfamiliar with Charlies Gelato gallery, it is a welcoming space with clean walls, large windows, and polished concrete floors, and it is available for exhibitions throughout the year. I recommend visiting this exhibition and taking the opportunity to enjoy a coffee or gelato while you are there. The space is accessible and family-friendly.
The exhibition runs until 12 April, so there is still time to see it. Also, please note that my exhibition will open shortly after, running from 15 April to 6 May.
