The Spring Fling 2013 brochure is now available

69 EWAN MCCLURE
Gracefield Arts Centre, 28 Edinburgh Road, Edinburgh Dumfries
T: (0131) 6693924 E: ewanmcclure@yahoo.com
W: www.ewanmcclure.wordpress.com Facebook: Ewan McClure
The French poet and art critic Charles Baudelaire highlighted the distinction
between ‘finished’ and ‘complete.’ A painting can be ‘unfinished’ in the
conventional sense but have reached completion as a coherent expressive
statement. Such a work would gain nothing of relevance from further
additions or refinement. In my most recent work I’ve been exploring this
matter. Except where I’ve wanted to suggest stillness and the slow passage
of time, I’ve actively resisted the urge to refine the brushwork and paint
to the corners, concentrating instead on capturing my primary interest -
perhaps only a facial likeness or the general pose and atmosphere of a model
- within a strict time limit. These self-imposed time limits often leave me with
unresolved elements and bare priming, but it’s the best way I’ve found to
preserve the pure, channelled excitement that I experience in painting.
directions: The Studio building is the more modern building of the two buildings
at Gracefield Arts Centre. It is also where the centre’s cafe and craft shop are
located.
recommendations: In your eagerness to get around art studios don’t overlook the
diverse permanent collection on show in Gracefield Arts Centre (3). Contemplate
those qualities which are judged to give certain pieces of art a lasting, museumquality
interest and value.
facilities: 40
price range: £400 - £2500
Springback 70 HELEN ACKLAM
Bellevue Villa, 113 Lockerbie Road, Dumfries DG1 3BN
T: (01387) 254654
E: helen@stuartacklam.plus.com
Grad
My inspiration comes from the Orkneys: their archaeology, landscape and
geology and also Norwegian influences on the islands. Detailed research,
particularly Norse mythology allows for connections to another world and
way of life. Sketchbooks on display in the studio are used for recording
thoughts and ideas as well as exploring techniques and qualities of surface,
form and texture. My work is positioned across drawing, painting
and sculpture with new work exploring artists books and box work.
Refreshments will also be available with donations going to a local charity.
directions: From the A75 exit onto A709 Lockerbie Road heading into Dumfries.
Drive past the Peel Centre, continue over the mini roundabout.Bellevue Villa is
situated opposite Houston’s Butchers. From Dumfries,follow Lockerbie Road
towards A75. 113 is the second house after Bane Loaning.
recommendations: J.B.Houston Quality Butchers (4). Greenbrae Loaning, Dumfries,
DG1 3DQ) a family-run butchers selling quality produce from speciality rare breeds to
a range of local meats. Haggis may be the speciality but the burgers and sausages
are highly recommended for summer BBQs. Dock Park (5) for a beautiful riverside
walk with stunning views towards Criffel.
facilities:
price range: £10 - £500
friends offer: 10% discount for friends of Spring Fling.
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