Sharing Spaces by Anita Plume and Barbara Karn
Vitreous Contemporary Art is very pleased to introduce Barbara Karn and Anita Plume with their new collections of work. The two artists could not be more different in their styles, techniques and approach to their medium and that is why we think they are a wonderful combination.
Although at first glance Anita's beautiful paintings of Cornish Woodlands are simple, wonderful images that resonate with all the magic and mystery of an enchanted forest, they are the type of paintings that rewards the viewer. What is really captured in these paintings is atmosphere; when viewing these images you are there, in amongst the trees and the foliage and whatever else exists in these secret worlds. It seems trite to say but there have been times when viewing Anita's paintings that I could close my eyes and smell the woods and taste the fresh air. I always believe that resonance is a true indicator of high quality art and for me at least, Anita's new works connect with my emotions easily.
Although Barbara's work is worlds apart from Anita's the one quality they do share is the ability to make you feel. I have always found that Barbara's paintings of the human form have that rare quality of being able to make you feel several different emotions at once. My first reaction to these interpretations of human behaviour is to laugh; I instantly find their exaggerated and stylised anatomy amusing. But like most things that bring a smile to your face, there is depth to these works. Often my smile can turn in the blink of the eye as I suddenly find my self sympathising with one character or noticing sadness in the eyes of another.
It should be no surprise when viewing Barbara's paintings to learn that she is also an accomplished sculptor. Her Portland Stone and Lime Stone figures are instantly familiar and if you view the paintings again you begin to see the sculptural qualities in her acrylics and oils. There are several examples of her sculpture in this exhibition and they a perfect compliment to the rest of the collection.
Jake Bose, Vitreous Contemporary Art |
