Wimbledon Art Fair welcomes Marine Tanguy

Wimbledon Art Fair welcomes Marine Tanguy

We are delighted to announce that Marine Tanguy, founder of MTArt Agency, will be visiting the studios to give a talk to our artists and inspire them before the official opening of Wimbledon Art Fair from 10-13 May.

Marine is the ultimate champion of accessible art and is instrumental in encouraging a new generation to interact and engage with art by making it available through public initiatives and collaborations.

We share Marine’s view that art should be accessible to everyone and this is just one of the reasons why Wimbledon Art Fair is free to attend. Wimbledon Art Fair is a showcase for over 150 of London’s most exciting artists and makers and provides not only a great opportunity for visitors to buy affordable art, but an opportunity to learn about it as well.

We can’t wait to welcome Marine to the studios and we hope to see lots of you at Wimbledon Art Fair!

About MTArt:

Founded in 2015, MTArt is the first artist agency in the world. We are an agency for the world's most exciting up and coming visual artists. While the art world concentrates on selling art on walls, we focus on investing and supporting the artists.

Every month, the agency reviews 200 portfolios of artist. Artists are chosen on innovative techniques, inspiring content and strong vision. MTArt covers their studio costs, sells their works, implement cultural & commercial partnerships and offers press exposure. This is how we accelerate their artistic reputation, visibility and success. 

We believe that our artists are the next rising stars of the art world. Thought leaders. Role Models. Pioneers.

We work with the best collectors, brands, public bodies and investors to establish their reputation. We want to see their art everywhere inspiring everyone. 

Your Guide to the May 2018 Wimbledon Art Fair

Your Guide to the May 2018 Wimbledon Art Fair

Wimbledon Art Fair returns from the 10 - 13 May 2018 

This locally renowned 4-day event is an exclusive opportunity to see behind-the-scenes of the artist’s studios and buy affordable contemporary art, crafts and gifts directly from over 150 of the most talented artists and makers in London.

FAQs:

When is the Art Fair open?
Thursday 10th & Frday 11th: 2pm - 10pm
Saturday 12th & Sunday 13th: 11am - 6pm

Do I need a ticket?
There's no need to book your FREE ticket to the Wimbledon Art Fair, but if you do you could win £200 to spend at the show! Entries close at midnight on Tuesday 8 May and the winner will be announced via our Facebook page on Wednesday 9 May - enter here

Can I come to the Official Launch Night?
Yes, you can. We're delighted that Kate Bryan, Sky Arts judge and Soho House Head of Collections, will be here to officially open Wimbledon Art Fair on Thursday 10 May from 6.30pm - 10pm. There will be complimentary bar and live music too. We do have limited spaces available, so please make sure you RSVP here by 5.5.18 to avoid disappointment. 

Which artists will be exhibiting at the Art Fair?
We have 150 of London's most exciting contemporary artists, exhibiting in the May 2018 Wimbledon Art Fair. View the full catalogue here

How do I get there?
The Art Fair takes place at Wimbledon Art Studios, SW17 0BB
By car: We have limited parking available, please use public transport where possible. 
By rail: Our nearest stations are Tooting Broadway (Northern Line) and Earlsfield (National Rail)
By bus: The 44/77/270 run along Garrett Lane, between Tooting Broadway and Earlsfield Stations. 
The 493 can be taken from Wimbledon Railway Station, along Plough Lane. Alight at the Wimbledon Stadium Stop.

Will there be anything for the children to do?
There certainly is! Award-winning sugar artist Jacqui Kelly will be teaching Chocolate Honey Bear workshops on Sunday, plus there's a decoupage station, face painting, screen printing & more.

Are there any other activities?
From pottery demonstrations to Abstract Art talks, there's plenty to see and do.

How long should I spend at Wimbledon Art Fair?
As long as you wish! We recommend that it takes 4 hours to explore the whole of the Art Fair (don't worry, that includes a tea break too!). Don't have much time? Take a look at the exhibiting artists, circle your favourites and visit them. A member of staff can point you in the right direction, if you need a hand.

Is there food and drink available at the Art Fair?
Yes, we have Little Reds Pizza and Mood Food Cafe providing culinary delights over the weekend and Cafe 2 U providing a selection of hot drinks. You can also enjoy a glass of Prosecco, beer or seasonal Pimms too.
Making a day of it? Pop into Ben's Canteen for a delicious brunch or hearty burger before or after the show. 

I'm in a wheelchair, will I be able to see the studios?
Yes, of course. There is wheelchair-friendly access to 7 out of the 8 floors, so there's plenty to see. Accessible toilets and blue badge parking bays will also be available. 

Can I pay by card at the Art Fair?
Yes, we can accept all major cards in the payment office and at the bar.

How can I support the Art Fair?
As a not-for-profit organisation, we are very grateful for any support we receive. There will be a number of donation stations across the 8 floors. Recommended donation is £4, which will go a long way to helping fund the show and supporting our artists. 

When is the next Art Fair?
The next Wimbledon Art Fair is the 15 - 18 November 2018. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to keep up to date with all our news until then. 

If you have any questions, you can get in touch on 0208 947 1183 or enquiries@wimbledonartstudios.co.uk

We look forward to seeing you at the show

St George's Hospital Charity...who and what to expect

On Friday 17th November, as part of the 25th anniversary Wimbledon Art Fair, we are holding a charity silent auction in aid of St George's Hospital Charity. 

The money raised from this auction will be help support the Arts team, to ensure that the charity’s art collection, innovative arts programmes, projects and commissions enhance the well-being of patients and staff.

our artists have donated a unique collection of artworks, which will be on display in the cafe from 2pm on friday. starting bids are £30 and the last bids will be taken at 8.30pm. 

Join us from 7pm and support this fantastic cause.

here's a selection of artworks up for auction...

Henrietta Stuart, studio 134

Richard Knight, studio 278

Rose Long, studio 302

Judith Brenner, studio 138

Antonia Jackson, studio 257

Becki Flack, studio 114

Angelika Spranger, studio 601

Clare May Martin, studio 415

Christine and the owl, studio 407

Katie Lee, studio 221

Jane Wachman, studio 143

Jane Bain, studio 10

Beatriz elorza, studio 108

Your Guide to the Wimbledon Art Fair

The newly named Wimbledon Art Fair launches in a weeks time and this November, it's going to be bigger and better than ever. 

Over 150 artists open their studio doors for four days, welcoming you to browse, discover and buy directly from them. Immerse yourself in our creative community and explore a collection of unique artworks and gifts. 

Highlights of the weekend include:

THURSDAY 16 NOVEMBER at 6.30pm
OFFICIAL LAUNCH NIGHT

Keith Brymer Jones, ceramicist and judge on BB2's The Great Pottery Throw Down, is here to launch the 25th Wimbledon Art Fair. Plus there's a free bar and live music... one not to be missed! RSVP here by 12.11.17.

FRIDAY 17 NOVEMBER at 7pm
ART AUCTION IN AID OF ST GEORGE'S HOSPITAL CHARITY

Join us as we auction a unique collection of original contemporary artworks, donated by our established and emerging artists.

The money raised from this auction will help the Arts Team at St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust to continue to expand their art collection, as well as supporting their innovative arts programmes that enhances the well-being of the 3.5 million patients who visit the Trust each year.

FAQs:

When is the Art Fair open?
Thurs 16 & Fri 17 Nov: 2pm - 10pm
Sat 18 & Sun 19 Nov: 11am - 6pm

Do I need a ticket?
There's no need to book your FREE ticket to the Wimbledon Art Fair, but if you do you could win £200 to spend at the show! Entries close at midnight on Tuesday 14 Nov - enter here

Which artists will be exhibiting at the Art Fair?
We have over 150 artists taking part in the 25th anniversary show, this November. You can view the full catalogue here

How do I get there?
The Art Fair takes place at Wimbledon Art Studios, SW17 0BB
By car: We have limited parking available, please use public transport where possible. 
By rail: Our nearest stations are Tooting Broadway (Northern Line) and Earlsfield (National Rail)
By bus: The 44/77/270 run along Garrett Lane, between Tooting Broadway and Earlsfield Stations. 
The 493 can be taken from Wimbledon Railway Station, along Plough Lane. Alight at the Wimbledon Stadium Stop.

Will there be anything for the children to do?
There certainly is! Art-K will be in studio 221, with lots of activities for the kids. Plus there will be workshops with Jacqui Kelly of Totally Sugar, screen printing with Jane Bain and many more. Pick up your activities programme from the reception desk when you arrive.

Are there any other activities?
From pottery demonstrations to Abstract Art talks, there's plenty to see and do.

Is there food and drink available at the Art Fair?
Yes, we have Mood Food Cafe providing culinary delights over the weekend and Cafe 2 U providing a selection of hot drinks. You can also enjoy a glass of Prosecco, beer or festive mulled wine at the bar.
Making a day of it? Pop into Ben's Canteen for a delicious brunch or hearty burger before or after the show. 

I'm in a wheelchair, will I be able to see the studios?
Yes, of course. There is wheelchair-friendly access to 7 out of the 8 floors, so there's plenty to see. Accessible toilets and blue badge parking bays will also be available. 

Can I pay by card at the Art Fair?
Yes, we can accept all major cards in the payment office and at the bar.

How can I support the Art Fair?
As a not-for-profit organisation, we are very grateful for any support we receive. There will be a number of donation stations across the 8 floors. Recommended donation is £4, which will go a long way to helping fund the show and supporting our artists. 

When is the next Art Fair?
The next Wimbledon Art Fair is the 10 - 13 May 2018. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to keep up to date with all our news until then. 

If you have any questions, you can get in touch on 0208 947 1883 or enquiries@wimbledonartstudios.co.uk

We look forward to seeing you at the show

Call For Volunteers

We need volunteers for exciting front-of-house and behind-the-scenes roles throughout the duration of the show. It’s a great opportunity to meet new people and gain experience working within a creative, collaborative environment.
Responsibilities Include:
·         Ensure that all visitors and artists have a positive experience at the show.
·         Maintain a welcoming and friendly atmosphere.
·         Deal with any queries or questions about Wimbledon Art Studios.
·         Help visitors navigate the studios and direct them to the artist they are looking for.
·         Work behind the bar when necessary, selling drinks and preparing orders.
·         Provide information about Wimbledon Art Studios and the artists taking part in the show.
·         Maximise opportunities for visitors to donate and purchase affordable artwork. The Wimbledon Art Fair is self-funded and we rely on the generosity of our visitors to keep it going.

Try something new and gain additional skills in event management and organisation with Wimbledon Art Studios.

To apply for the role, send your CV to enquiries@wimbledonartstudios.co.uk

Artist Interview with Idun Eustace

Hi Idun, so tell us about your work...

I work in oil on canvas or board. I am known for my abstract and semi-abstract work.

What inspires your work?

I create series of work from memories, using a certain palette. This summer, I have painted a small series of brightly coloured abstracts. 

We hear you've been shortlisted for a few awards this year... congratulations!

Yes, I have been shortlisted for the NEAC with two paintings and the Royal Institute of Oil Painters with another painting.

That's great news. What do you love about Wimbledon Art Studios?

Being able to work in a peaceful environment and, of course, the community.

Find out more about Idun and her practice in studio 115/142 at the Wimbledon Art Fair on the 16th - 19th November

Artist Interview with Heather Hodge

Heather Hodge is an upcoming artist at Wimbledon Art Studios, who is a Chartered Accountant by day and is in the early stages of her art career. We caught up with Heather to find out what she's been up to since the last show...

Hi Heather, so tell us a bit about your work...

I am inspired by impressionism and colour.  My work is abstract and an interpretation of nature.  I start with a colour palette and composition in mind but my images are led by the interaction of the colours and the compositions can become instinctive.  I want the paintings to be bold and full of movement.  I work with acrylic paint and use clear resin to achieve a glossy finish for a light and modern effect.

And what have you been working on since the May show?

My latest collection builds on floral painting that I started earlier this year and exhibited at the May Open Studios event.  But the pieces have become more abstract and more colourful!  The subject matter has also expanded with some pieces inspired by the sea.  I like to use triptychs and will be exhibiting a collection of those along with some larger pieces that could be sold individually or together.   

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

I am a Chartered Accountant and after years working in finance my Art career is in its infancy selling my first pieces at the Open Studios in May.  As my career progresses I look forward to growing as an artist and enjoying the journey! 

How has being an artist at Wimbledon Art Studios helped your career?

Joining the studios at Wimbledon Art Studios has been great for me and was a goal for me starting out in my art career having been a visitor at the Open Studios event in the past. I have benefitted from the experience of my fellow artists and inspired by their creations.  Everyone has been very friendly and welcoming! 

If you'd like to see more of Heather's work, visit her in studio 289 at the Wimbledon Art Fair on the 16 - 19th November 2017.

Artist Interview with Allan Storer

Hi Allan, so tell us about your inspiration?

My prime motivation is Abstract Expressionism; 20th.C. Modernists Rothko and Neumann are important, but also the  brilliant Squeegee's of Gerhard Richter and the heavy impasto work of Sir Kyffin William; so possibly Contemporary is more appropriate.    

What are your career highlights so far? 

I have devoted seven years in the academic study of the theory and practice of art, its psychology, therapeutic and practical application. 

Every satisfied client is a career highlight and one that immediately springs to mind is the largest work I have painted being 24ft. in height for a McAlpine Show Apartment in their Cheyn Terrace Luxury Apartment Development in Chelsea; the paintings base initially viewed from the apartment's entrance hall reaching through the first floor level to the second floor landing.

Where might we have seen you and your work before?

I have enjoyed popular media coverage with features and interviews on both BBC and HTV. 

As well as media coverage in several newspapers and magazines, information regarding my style and practice has been sought by art students for their educational dissertations.  In this context I give talks on Surrealism and also run oil painting courses. Please contact me for further information by visiting; http://www.allanstorer.com/courses.html

Any celebrity or well-known gallery buyers? (That you can mention)

I have met many exciting and interesting people amongst my client base which includes one or two Hollywood celebrities, a UAE Royal family, and international personalities in the music and arts industries, not forgetting a senior Government politician. 

I have exhibited in museums and art galleries in the public sector too with one painting in the permanent collection of the RFU.

In 2014 I supplied several paintings for the Grand Prix apartments in Monaco whilst exhibiting with Italian Designer Furnishings Company Minotti in their nightsbridg Showrooms.  I am able to supply more information re my outlets on request.

So tell me what you enjoy about Wimbledon Art Studios?

The one great advantage Is a stimulating environment of creatives, from mixed backgrounds and varied life experiences. 

And what can we look forward to in the future?

More work for new clients, Interior Designers and Galleries looking for quality and reliability and also more teaching and talks.

To find out more about Allan and his work, visit allanstorer.com or pop into studio 118 at the Wimbledon Art Fair, from the 16 - 19th November 2017.

Artist Interview with Judith Brenner

Hi Judith, so tell us a bit about your work?

I create abstract paintings using acrylic paint, metal powders and pigments. I also work from life on my iPad which I print as limited editions. 

What can we expect for the November show?

I have been working towards a solo show and the paintings have become more painterly and textured along the way. I have had lots of new metal powders to rust in different ways.

Would you say you were an upcoming or established artist?

Finally feeling more established but still got a way to go! This year I have been shortlisted for the 2017 Royal Academy Summer Exhibition, National Open Art Competition and Jackson’s Art Atmospheric Acrylics

What do you enjoy about being at Wimbledon Art Studios?

The community feel and sharing ideas, making collaborative art and learning from my peers.

You can find Judith in studio 138 at the Wimbledon Art Fair on the 16th - 19th November, or visit judithbrenner.com for more information.

Artist Interview with Ariadna Dane

Having launched her artistic career at the May Open Studios, we were keen to catch up with Ariadna Dane to see what she's been up to since the last show. 

Hi Ariadna, how have you settled in to life at Wimbledon Art Studios?
Very well, thank you. I love the atmosphere of creativity, friendliness and support for each other that we have in the studios. During my first week here, I spend a lot of time just knocking at studio’s doors, trying to get to know as many people as I could. I received such a warm welcome from the residents - this made me feel instantly at home. 

We're glad to hear it! The May Open Studios marked the start of your artistic career, how do you think it went? 
It was so exciting to show my work for the first time. Although I have been interested and involved in art throughout my life, my background is in finance, which is a completely different world. The May Open Studios exhibition, went better than I expected. It was very encouraging to make my first sales, have some meaningful feedback from the visitors and gain a representation from a well-known art consultancy.

So what can we expect from you at the next show?
Having spent the beginning of this year experimenting and researching, I have now created two bodies of work: Organic Wreaths and Basal Elements, which I will exhibit at the November show. Both feature ink on paper and cutouts. The former is a colourful work while the latter is monochrome.

The creative process is very “alive” thanks to the mediums and techniques I use and the resulting work also continuously changes: the cutouts create distinctive shadows, as the lighting changes throughout the day. I love it that there is life to my work, especially since I am inspired by all things natural. 

I continue experimenting, as I want my work to constantly evolve and change, so be prepared for some exiting new results. 

To find out more about Ariadna's work visit ariadnadane.com or find her in studio 414 at the Wimbledon Art Fair from the 16th - 19th November 2017.

Plan your visit to the Open Studios

When is the Wimbledon Open Studios open?
Thursday 11th - Sunday 14th May 2017
Thurs & Fri 2pm - 10pm
Sat & Sun 11am - 6.30pm

Do I need to book a ticket?
There's no need to book your FREE ticket to the Wimbledon Open Studios, but if you do you could win £200 to spend at the show! Entries close at midnight on Sunday 7th May - enter here

How do I get there?
By car: We have limited parking available, please use public transport where possible. 
By rail: Our nearest stations are Tooting Broadway (Northern Line) and Earlsfield (National Rail)
By bus: The 44/77/270 run along Garrett Lane, between Tooting Broadway and Earlsfield Stations. 
The 493 can be taken from Wimbledon Railway Station, along Plough Lane. Alight at the Wimbledon Stadium Stop.

Will there be anything for the children to do?
There certainly is! Jacqui Kelly of Totally Sugar is holding Kids' chocolate teddy bear making workshop on Saturday & Sunday at 2pm, in studio 24. Plus we'll have a trail to keep the little ones occupied.

Are there any other activities?
From pottery demonstrations to Abstract Art talks, there's something for everyone. See our full events programme here 

Is there food and drink available at the Open Studios?
Yes, we have The Flying Ducks and Mood Food Cafe providing teas, coffees and refreshments over the weekend. Or you can enjoy a glass of Prosecco or a beer in one of the bars.
Making a day of it? Pop into Ben's Canteen for a delicious brunch or hearty burger before or after the show. 

I am in a wheelchair, can I still come?
You certainly can! There is disabled access to 7 out of the 8 floors, so there's plenty to see. Disabled toilets and blue badge parking bays will also be available. 

Can I pay by card at the Open Studios?
Yes, there are card machines in the payment office and in the bar.

How can I support the Open Studios?
As a not-for-profit organisation, we are very grateful for any support we receive. There will be a number of donation stations across the 8 floors. Recommended donation is £4, which will go a long way to helping fund the show and supporting our artists. 

When is the next Open Studios?
The next Open Studios is the 16th - 19th November 2017. Keep up to date with the Wimbledon Art Studios artists until then by pre-booking your ticket here. Plus we'll give you priority access to online sales and events. 

 

Artist Interview with Richard Knight

Hi Richard, so tell us about your work?

My paintings attempt to capture the perpetually evolving patterns and rhythms of light created by architecture, landscape and people. I paint this 'dance to the music of time' by fusing observational drawing with colour, texture and pattern, I want the spectator to recognise what and where I paint and enjoy my interpretation of familiar places and situations.

Anything new for the May Open Studios?

Having spent some time in New York last year I will be showing some of my impressionist work from there.

Where did your career start?

After an upbringing on the family farm on the coast of North Cornwall, I left my tractor behind to train in graphic design and illustration at Kingston University in the mid '80s. I’ve since spent thirty years in the creative industry in London, first as an illustrator and graphic designer, and now as a full time artist.

Apart from the May Open Studios, where else can we see your work?

My work can be seen at the Art Agency, Esher, Catherine Miller Gallery, Chelsea among others. My work appeared at the Battersea Affordable Art fair in March with the Art Agency then at the Hampstead Affordable in May with Mint Gallery.

Highlights of your career so far?

In 2016, I was chosen to appear on Sky Landscape Artist of the Year, my work is mostly ‘Urban impressionism'

What do you enjoy about being at WAS?

Mixing with other artists, having the facilities available to show my work twice a year in the Open Studios and the sheer convenience of a studio so close to central London.

To find out more about Richard Knight and his work visit richardknightsart.co.uk

Artist interview with Michael Wallner

Hi Michael, how would you describe your work?

My art celebrates the beauty of the city through the shapes and outlines that define its character. The work is created by digitally manipulating my own photographs to produce unusual works of art on brushed aluminium, reclaimed wood, brass, even a 1930’s window, as well as neon, magnetic, and L.E.D installations. 

What are your influences?

Most weeks you’ll find me wandering the streets trying to find unusual angles to photograph London from. In particular I love views from high buildings. On a few occasions I have hired helicopters which allow me to fly without the doors on to achieve better shots to work from. 

I also have work celebrating the landmarks and landscapes of New York, Paris, Dubai, Singapore, Miami, Amsterdam, and Hong Kong.

Without giving too much away, what should we look forward to from you, this year?

Hopefully this year my work will be a little more abstract and there will be more ‘light' art - either with L.E.Ds or neon. There may also be work on concrete. 

Where did your career begin?

I studied photography as part of a Communications Masters Degree at the University of Florida. 

Before becoming a full time artist I worked as a Television Producer working on light entertainment, chat shows, property programmes, documentaries, and an animation. 

Have you won any awards?

Under 11 Sack Race Champion. 

Where might we have seen you and your work recently?

My Battersea Power Station neon piece was featured in the Evening Standard in an article about an exhibition of Battersea Power Station art in 2015. Battersea Power Station bought the piece. 

Mat Kemp and I were interview on BBC Radio London Robert Elms Show (not by him but his stand-in) about our group show A River Runs Through It in 2016. 

Would not want to mention my buyers by name but there are one or two CEOs of top businesses and corporations.

What do you enjoy about being at WAS?

The landlord. The warmth of my studio, no wait, that’s my flat. Always get them mixed up. 

Working amongst so many talented artists has really helped develop my work. Being here has encouraged me to experiment with new and unusual materials. 

For more information on Michael Wallner and his practice visit michaelwallner.co.uk

Artist Interview with Alex Rennie

Hi Alex, so how long have you been at Wimbledon Art Studios?

A long time... I'm coming up to my seventh year here.

And how would you describe your art and influences?

I work across a few disciplines with oil paint. Generally speaking, I'm interested in my home town of London and the movement of people. I am known for figurative and textural realism, trompe l'oeil illusions and a glowing red hue which appears in much of my work.

Where can we see your work?

My work can be seen at Waterhouse and Dodd gallery in Mayfair and New York, and of course at the Wimbledon Open Studios in May.

We hear you’re involved in an exciting project this year…

Yes! I'm beginning work on a project in collaboration with the Rural Refugee Network charity, which will address the mass migration of Syrian refugees into Europe and the UK and the challenges of finding safety. It’s a really amazing charity and I’m thrilled to be involved.

What are you most notable exhibitions: 

I've been involved in some great exhibitions, probably most notably:
- John Moores Painting Prize, Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool 2016 - featured artist
- Lynn Painter-Stainers Prize, Mall Galleries, London 2016 - featured artist
- BP portrait award, National Portrait Gallery 2005 - featured artist

Any celebrity or well-known gallery buyers?

The actress Stephanie Cole bought a piece in 2006!

And finally, what should we expect to see at the Open Studios?

I'm not sure what I'll be showing at the Open Studios, I'm exploring several strands of work right now, so watch this space.

To find out more about Alex's work, visit his website at alexrennie.co.uk

Artist Interview with Emma-Leone Palmer

So how do you see yourself, upcoming or established?

'Emerging artist'.. (what a weird thing to be called.. like you are slimy bug-like thing crawling out from under a rock with your paint brushes!!)

Where can we see your work at the moment?

Currently exhibiting at the Store Street Gallery, for the London Contemporary Art Prize. The Graham Hunter Gallery in February and The Wallace Collection in April

What are you known for and what's your inspiration?

The 'Paint Play’ series. Expressions get me going.. add a whole load of paint/glitter/lube smeared on the face and I’m just buzzing. 

What should we expect to see from you at the Open Studios in May 2017?

The WAS show gives the public a glimpse of my working studio. You can see finished paintings and work in progress amongst paint-splashed walls and pots of turps. I am currently working on ‘Paint Play’ pieces using glitter and expressions from exertion… watch this space.

So, some people may recognise you from the TV, can you tell us more?

*Blushing* You may have seen me painting Richard E. Grant on Sky Arts, Portrait Artist of The Year! Frank Skinner was a hoot! 

And any recent awards?

I recently won the London Contemporary Art Prize and received an award from Princess Michael of Kent at the SWA, The Mall Galleries.

Any celebrity or well-known gallery buyers? (that you can mention)

Sharron Davies MBE and Richard E. Grant both have paintings on their walls. I have also painted Mary Wondrausch OBE and Paul Rodgers

What do you enjoy about being at WAS?

The Community. You have to love the diversity of what goes on there; Popping into other artists studios, chewing over ideas, sharing creative highs and lows; We are all surfing different waves in the same ocean feeding our paint addiction!

You can see more of Emma-Leone's work on her website emma-leonepalmer.com or her Instagram @emmaleonepalmer

Jilly Vainer shortlisted for Wildlife Artist of the Year 2017

We're delighted that Jilly Vainer, of studio 514, has been shortlisted for Wildlife Artist of the Year 2017. The exhibition will take place at the Mall Galleries from 27th June - 1st July. 

Jilly Vainer's macaque 'Snow Monkey' will be exhibited at the Mall Galleries as part of the Wildlife Artist of the Year 2017 exhibition

We caught up with Jilly in the lead up to the Open Studios in May.

Tell us a little bit about yourself, Jilly...

I am an upcoming artist specialising in wildlife/animal Sculptures, well known for my Dog/Horse portrait's and sculptures of endangered species. 

Where can we see your work?

The private members club “Leander” at Henley Regatta, has a permanent fixture of one of my Hippopotamus sculptures, as this is their mascot for the club.

Anything we should look forward to for the May Open Studios?

My latest collection captures the movement of migrating swallows, these are wall installations for indoors and outdoors and at the moment I am also working on a Spatuletail Humming bird.

What's your career highlight so far?

I was very happy to have one of my sculptures chosen by the “society of wildlife”, my hibernating Dormouse was exhibited at the “mallgalleries” in London SW1.

How has Wimbledon Art Studios helped your career?

WAS has offered me over the last 9 years a great platform and opportunity to show my work to the public at their twice-yearly exhibitions. Slowly this has turned a lifetime hobby in to a more commercial venture. The studios also offer a great sense of community and support this is very welcoming when you are starting any new venture.

Find out more about Jilly Vainer's work at jillyvainer.co.uk 

Professional Art Buyers Day with Tabish Khan

The London Art Critic and Visual Arts Editor for the Londonist, Tabish Khan, will be hosting an event dedicated to professionals visiting the Open Studios on Friday 12th May.

Here’s a little insight on what Tabish loves about the Wimbledon Open Studio experience.

"I've been to the Open Studios at Wimbledon Art Studios several times and it's always enjoyable - I've even bought a piece from there. 

It's great to meet the artists in their own workspaces and it's a completely different experience to seeing art in galleries, which can often feel sterile and unwelcoming. Having a chat with artists in a more informal setting is a great opportunity to understand their work better and to appreciate the efforts that go into making their work.

I'm looking forward to the next open studios and I hope to see you there"

Friday 12th May 2017
2.30pm - Welcome drink and networking
3.30pm: Highlights of the Open Studios by Tabish Khan, followed by Q&A
4pm: Meet the Artists - guided tour with owner, Nigel Holman

RSVP is essential for this event
Book here now

Vaughn Horsman, the man behind the machine

How would you describe yourself and your work?

I consider myself an upcoming old guy. My art has been a very slow expression of crazy ideas which I dreamed about 20 years ago. Over time they have become more structured, more refined and more real. Most of them feel like being trapped inside an old science fiction movie… Which is a lot like normal life these days. I try to find humour and beauty in the experience.

I studied architecture rather than fine art. My paintings use architecture to make art these days.

Tell us about your practice...

I make art using computer code, machines and paint brushes. The mixture of media lets me say something about the present. Some people feel the beauty in the pieces. Most don’t. A good deal of visitors have to walk past my door a good few times before crossing the threshold. I guess you could accuse my work of being an acquired taste. Difficult to digest.

What can we look forward to at the show? Anything new for 2017?

In previous shows I have displayed a lot of small scale prototypes and models. Now that I’ve figured out how to actually make them, I’m going to be showing bold, large scale reliefs. I find that bigger is always better with art. Simple ideas don’t have presence until you have to stand back and look up at them.

Where can we see your work at the moment?

I have two pieces in the national museum of Wales digital collection. I currently have work on show at Tower 42 in the city. Gallery Nummer 40 in the Netherlands will be showing a range of “Masterplan” paintings at various UK and European art fairs through the year.

Have you received any awards?

None. I’m not happy about this. People tell me I should enter competitions.

What do you enjoy about being at WAS?

WAS is a relaxed creative space filled with hundreds of very interesting artists. It’s my happy place. Unlike other studios, WAS lets me run a studio with industrial CNC machinery and power tools. They open 24 hours, so I can work till 3am.

For more information on Vaughn and his work visit thoughtform.co.uk

All your framing needs, right here in the studios

Hi Jon, so what do you do at Wimbledon Art Studios?

Operating a picture framing business under the name of ‘Wimbledon Studio Frames’.

How would you describe your business?

I’d like to think I'm both an upcoming and established business. I began my framing career when I took a space at Wimbledon Art Studios, having completed my initial training as a framer. Now my frames can be seen all over the world, thanks to all those talented artists I've worked with.

Describe the work you frame?

Being located within Wimbledon Art Studios, home to a diverse range of artists working across all media, I have framed all types of work. Boxing gloves, crewel, embroidery, canvases, ceramics, watercolours, collage, photography, sculpture, oils, chalk pastels, oil pastels, charcoal, textiles; works for museums and galleries. And works for schools, for parents, for homes, offices, sports centres…

So what do you get up to at the show?

During the show, my doors will be open, and two framers will be on hand to deal with any enquiries. This could be for work purchased during the show, or anything else pertaining to framing.

Anything new for 2017?

New methods, new products, new approaches!

Any celebrity or well-known gallery buyers? (that you can mention)

Where would I start...

What do you enjoy about being at Wimbledon Art Studios?

As a picture framer, I could not wish for a more exciting environment in which to develop my practise and skills. Everyday can present a new challenge, perspective and approach. I get to work alongside highly talented artists, makers, printers, photographers: if it’s a creative discipline or related practise, you’ll probably find someone doing it at Wimbledon Art Studios. It’s an extremely dynamic and fluid environment.

I also enjoy being equally open to the public, as is a High Street framer, providing a comprehensive service, guaranteeing quality and consideration, regardless of the type of work that needs framing. My co-worker James Kelman, who has worked in the framing industry for over twenty years, brings a wealth of practical experience to the workshop. Between the two of us, we can ensure that your work will be framed to the highest standard, and in such a way that it can be appreciated for decades, if not generations, to come. 

Artist Interview with Tim Goffe

We hear you've been shortlisted for the Royal Academy Summer Show, congratulations! Tell us a bit about your work...

Drawing on my past as a photographer, my work is observational but indulges in a painterly approach. I'm known for urban and industrial scenes, empty shops, service stations, airports, interiors, light and its power to transform is always the key initial inspiration.

Are you working on anything new for the 2017 Open Studios? Anything exciting we should look out for?

All of the above, as well as the continuing the investigation into the interiors of stately homes. New print editions and a secret surprise!

That does sound exciting. Where can we find your work at the moment?

Currently showing in Dynamite Gallery Brighton. Often to be seen in the Federation of British Artists shows at the Mall Galleries and Zimmer Stuart Arundel.

Any awards?

In 2014 I received The Gordon Hulson Memorial Prize for Draughtsmanship, Variety & Exploration at the RBA show at the Mall Galleries

Any celebrity or well-known gallery buyers? (you can mention)

Yes, some well known but secretive collectors, you’ll have to trust me on this one :)

Thanks Tim, we look forward to see your work at the Open Studios.

For more information about Tim's work visit timgoffestudio.com