In January, artist Stephen Grey shows his latest work at Cath Ray Gallery and Studios, Bridgegate, Retford. Stephen is an artist who recently appeared on Sky Arts’ ‘Portrait Artist of the Year’ (current series, episode 4), when he painted a portrait of Helen Sharman (the first British female astronaut).
In this solo show, Stephen exhibits his colourful portraits, still lives and figure drawings, which show the skill and fluidity of a true draughtsman at work.
He said: “I have been drawing for as long as I can remember. A sketchbook has always been near to hand. I worked as a professional story-board artist for many years for television and advertising commercials, which meant having to regularly create up to 50 colour frames a day either from imagination or supplied reference. Anything from cat food and perfume to whisky and cigarettes, drawing people in various situations became second nature.”
After retiring from professional work, Stephen moved to Spain for 20 years where he had the time and opportunity to develop his artistic skills and drew and painted the landscape, people and objects that surrounded him. The work sold regularly through a permanent exhibition in one of Stephen’s favourite restaurants, with one customer buying 20 pieces of work at one sitting!
Stephen now lives in Gainsborough after returning to the UK and has exhibited work at The Usher Gallery in Lincoln and The Harley Gallery in Welbeck, before being selected to appear on the Sky Arts programme.
During the run of the exhibition, there will also be an eight week ‘Drawing Course’ at the gallery on Monday afternoons (1.00pm to 3.00pm), Thursday evenings (7.00pm to 9.00pm), or Saturday afternoons (3.30pm to 5.30pm). The course is designed for beginners, but would also provide a regular slot to practise skills. Sessions cost £15.00 each and include all materials and refreshments. Book via raybooks@msn.com or 07803 204424, or in person at the gallery.