On the 15th April, celebrated 'extreme artist' Philip Gray is personally unveiling his latest collection of original oil and pastel paintings, as well as limited edition prints at the gallery. Gray's landscape art is painted in unexpected and sometimes dangerous locations, from Icelandic volcanoes to the North Atlantic seabed, and even 20,000 feet up Everest.
Philip Gray discusses his passion for painting landscapes:
"Painting for me is like breathing, it is a vital component to living, without it there would be no me. Each new day, each new painting is a new journey into the unknown. I paint with total abandon, as I tackle each new canvas I feel a surge of renewed energy and anticipation of what will be revealed. The sea and water is my muse and my source from which I translate my emotions from deep within.
All my life I have been drawn to the sea. My past experiences as a naval diver provided the opportunity to experience the ocean wave and the quiet and mysterious depths below the surface. I interpret the surface of the ocean as the external of ourselves and the depths represent our inner being.
Whether I am starting a new painting, scuba diving or travelling to extreme locations, each one is a new journey of discovery. Yes there is danger when we venture into waters unknown, but what a great experience to attempt to go or do what no other has dared. I guess we must accept the risks if we wish to find new shores.
Watch the sea closely on a day when the shore is full of foam,the waves crash like the symphony orchestra in perfect harmony. Our lives are busy but controlled, our dreams are coming to pass in a way that we desire, it is poetry in motion.”
Philip Gray will be painting live on the night, where each attendee will be given the opportunity to make a mark on a canvas. This will then be developed into a completed work of art by the artist, and the resulting piece will be auctioned for charity.
So come along to the gallery, 15th April, 7pm - 9pm to meet this fascinating, 'extreme' artist.
Click here to view some of his pieces: http://www.hepplestonefineart.com/shop/philip_gray.html
