Three exhibitions started down at Prema in Uley this week - and the artists are all printmakers! Or at least printmaking is a large part of their artistic practice. Just shows how much interest in the medium has increased from the public (and artists) over the last few years. The three exhibiting artists pretty much cover all the print processes between them (including etching, drypoint, woodcut, lino and screen printing) and there is some really beautiful work. Well worth a visit.
In his subtle etchings and watercolours Ali Yanya has caught ordinary people going about their business. I found the still, shadowy figures strangely moving, the sense of isolation and transience is really strong.
In the cafe Sarah Young is exhibiting some of her colourful relief prints. The illustrations for the Greek Myths book are particularly eyecatching. Having checked out her website I am in awe of her productivity and creative repertoire. (and she has an Etsy shop!) Something for me to aspire to.
Emily Hogarth is one of the growing number of artists creating intricate paper cuts which really lend themselves to screen printing and are very popular at the moment. She has created packaging and artwork for Cadburys, M&S and Lloyds TSB among others. A short video about her design process can be found on the Nivea website. Bit twee, but it's always interesting to see how artists get inspiration for their work.
Another reason to go (if you need one) is that the new cafe is open. Yummy cakes!
Prema is a family friendly Arts Centre, promoting performance, live music and art exhibitions, as well as accessible workshops, classes and creative experiences for kids and adults. Prema, near Dursley in the Stroud valleys, offers an afforadable day out for all folk in the South West.
