Natural Living

Another beautiful evening for the opening of our latest exhibition, "Natural Living". Lovely to see so many people, both familiar faces and new visitors. Many thanks to Jeff for keeping the drinks flowing and Flic for her sensitve photography.

“Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful” - William Morris

Memories of the long hot summer fading, we leave the garden in peace and turn to our interiors, looking to artists to keep us in touch with nature.
 
Painting can be a solitary experience, the better to absorb and distil the world around us. With landscapes featuring strongly, each artist has their own approach, a distinct language arising from their method and interests, the process capturing the light and mood as much as the view. Whether painted en plein air or back in the studio the soundscape is as important; the cry of birds, the whistle of wind or simply the absence, the stillness. But it's not all beautiful scenes of boats and light dancing on Bewl Water or the rolling Sussex landscape. Pause a moment to admire the arresting industrial structures and how they define our landscape and our place within it.
 
In contrast to this variety of landscapes there is quiet contemplation and intricate observation.
 
Nature is always in the background of our choices for Artichoke Gallery and this show will not disappoint. Across the gallery you'll find birds and insects, frogs and dogs, a camel and even the odd deer or two (well it is nearly Christmas).
 
The ceramics are understated, tactile neutral forms as much a pleasure to handle as to view. Enjoy the clean lines in a glorious range of colours and glazes from a variety of highly experienced studio potters. Others are decorated, hand painted and informed by centuries of familiarity with functional household vessels.
 
We have an exquisite range of jewellery and luxury scarves to set your heart on, make it easy for your loved ones and leave a hint or two with us.
 
And there's always time for fun at Artichoke, from Tai Chi goats to Pizza Eater Cheetahs, we like to raise a smile with the odd bit of frivolity!