Burbage Art Group exhibited their work at Burbage Institute on Saturday July 16th.
I was impressed with the quality of the art which this enthusiastic group of local artists have produced. At one time there were as many as 14 visitors in the room and they clearly enjoyed walking around the exhibition. Taste of course varies between individuals and their favourite works varied enormously.
Burbage Art Group is a small number of artists who meet every week. Many of them are experienced artists who have been involved with art all their lives. Some of the artists have had their works exhibited in prestigious venues such as the Royal Miniature Galleries in London. Young people are encouraged to join the group and a university student attends during holidays. Beginners and newcomers are welcome. There is a healthy tendency for the artists to know what their next steps will be.
In the exhibition a wide variety of media was in evidence and there was a variety of subjects. Interesting use of materials include working on clairefontaine pastelmat paper using a combination of watercolours and pastels. Watercolours as you would expect were much in evidence. Some very colourful flowers were amongst my favourites. Fabric and embroidery collages were examples of the adventurous use of materials.
There were many good anatomically accurate bird, animal and fish which have been lovingly worked upon and which deserve appreciation. Landscapes were well represented often with interestingly painted houses, some scenes recognisable, others formed from the imagination as in the case of a picture of birch trees.
The human form was the main preoccupation with one of the artists. Drawings included athletes showing accurate anatomical details. The muscles on a dancer gave body builders something to aim for. I think the artist may receive inspiration and teaching from Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo.
An interesting subject was a working elephant in Sheffield in the First World War. Lizzie the elephant was recruited to replace horses that went to war in Europe and perhaps was a distraction from the horrors of the war.
Each year the Burbage Art Group sponsors a school artist award at Buxton Community School. The young artist’s works included a mixture of graphics, photographs and 3 D works. The brief for her work was related to the needs of local industry. Her slumped bowl was delightful to see.
It was a free event with cakes and refreshments. There was also a quiz for children. Anyone wanting information about the pay-as-you-go classes should contact Rachel Slaney on 01538 266220
Roger Horvath