Helen painted the background in acrylics and ink and then sent the canvas to me. I then added the foreground layer in acrylics. This is a unique way of working with no communication between the artists, each adding their own character and inspiration to the painting. The end result is a truly distinctive piece of art.

I really enjoyed the challenge of this piece as the colours Helen chose for the background are unlike anything I would normally use. It made me think a little differently and I am really pleased with the result.

I will be writing about the weekend in more detail on my personal blog soon, once this nice weather has gone!

Mike's Work

The Rogue Gene Collective is a small group of artists who are committed to helping each other attain a higher level of visibility for their work. We do this by networking; pooling resources, information, knowledge and contacts. There are currently seven members, and four guest artists

As a group we hold exhibitions all over the country acting as agents, couriers and publicists for each other. Our aim is to offer a wide variety of quality original artwork to the collector, occasional buyer or corporate buyer.

This exhibition is a rare opportunity for the group to come together in person to exhibit a comprehensive collection of original quality work, representing some of the best competitively priced contemporary artwork available. There will also be a special stand showing a selection of collaborations between the group members. This is a new and unique idea where two artists have worked together to create an original artwork.

The exhibition will be on Sunday 16th May at Pinder Hall, Lower Road, Cookham, SL6 9EH. Amanda Hunt, Andrea Farmer, Helen Davison, Kos Marton and Rob Kirbyson will all be available throughout the day to answer any questions or just for a chat.

Cookham is a small village on the banks of the Thames just off Junction 4 on the M40, and Junction 8/9 of the M4. Why not come for the day – a visit to the exhibition can easily be combined with a stroll along the river and maybe a pub lunch in one of the many small local country pubs. Entrance is free and the event is suitable for all the family.

It is the annual Summer Open Exhibition at the Wolds Gallery, and this year the theme is “Coastal”. I will probably also be entering my “Aitch At Sea” painting and maybe try to paint another one before the entry deadline.

I have combined an abstract styled background with a realistic style for the people on the foreground. The painting is on box canvas and measures 10 x 8 inches, painted in canvas.

You can view the gallery at Wolds Village here, just click on the “Art Gallery” tab on the left hand side.

Cathy Savels, creator of the site, is a current guest member of the Rogue Gene Collective and an inspiring artist to us all. Her work can be seen on the rgc site here, or on her own website here.

This month I’ve been busy with a few new pieces of art, one a new departure for me called “Together”. This painting depicts two doves sitting in a tree laden with blossom. I was inspired to paint this in the run up to Valentine’s day over a sunny weekend when it looked as though Spring might be on its way. Hopefully it might still inspire happy thoughts during this next period of cold weather!

'Frozen'

‘Frozen’ is the latest addition to my ethereal landscape collection.  The paintings focus is on the British rural landscape – a cold, crisp day. Ice and snow. Created in oil and ink on a 255 x 255 mm deep edge box canvas.

www.andreafarmer.co.uk