An Exhibition of Oil Paintings and Book Launch

Saturday 21st June 10am - 5pm - Meet the Artist

We are delighted to host a book launch for acclaimed painter and writer, Mark Stopforth, in the gallery this year. Mark’s expertise in painting using the Alla Prima method and his writing skills combine in the form of a stimulating new book designed to share his knowledge and skills with others. “Alla Prima Skies and Seas” is a thorough guide to this exciting technique.

Join us in the gallery on Saturday 21st June for a glass of wine and to meet the artist who will be talking about his approach to this method of painting. To celebrate Mark’s launch we will be holding an exhibition of his paintings from Wednesday 11th June until Saturday 28th June.

“Hyperion” by Mark Stopforth, Oil on Canvas
View Mark’s collection HERE

Alla prima is an Italian phrase that means ‘at first attempt’. It refers to a wet-on-wet approach whereby wet paint is applied to previous layers of still-wet paint, often in a single sitting. Mark demonstrates how the technique can be used without a brush to powerfully portray skies and seas, and how it allows for bold, strong artworks, that echo the enigmatic styles of Turner, Van Gogh and Constable.

Alla prima allows an overall command of the whole picture because everything is being painted ‘all at once’ in the same session. It calls for virtuoso handling of the material – a boldness that can bring out an inspired response.The main focus of alla prima is edges: soft, blended ones contrasted with those sharply defined. However, being able to control these edges and the way the paint mixes requires preparation of colours and a decisive handling of the material.