NEW paintings by nine invited artists constitute the Christmas exhibition at Art Matters Gallery in December. Unfettered by theme, the collection is wide ranging in subject and style. Elizabeth Haines's semi-abstract pieces are warmly autumnal and inspired by trees in a French landscape whereas Martyn Vaughan Jones has brought acrylic paintings of wild skies and rough seas of Carmarthen Bay. Geoff Yeomans, well-known for his close observations of rust and flaking paint, doesn't disappoint with oil-paintings on canvas that include old doors with hinges, locks and bolts, a rusty groyne and a pitted and scarred rock surface. The surfaces of Ruth Sargeant's new work are made by processes involving the burning and melting of various materials. The results are subtle collages, entirely abstract images in a limited range of colour, which engage the viewer in mental speculation. Guy Mannings's detailed drawings in charcoal of Cresswell Quay and his delicate paintings of umbellifers and woodland are in contrast with Sue Pomery Wilks's large tactile acrylic-with-knife paintings that include Preseli and Carew in the snow as well as Pembrokeshire coastal scenes in warmer weather. A newcomer to the gallery, Don Lodge from York, has also painted local coastal scenes including Newport and Porthgain from high viewpoints. Penny Timmis, on the other hand, has exhibited at the gallery for some years now. She has brought a selection of large acrylic paintings, some on canvas, some under glass, which include landscapes, coastal views and farm animals in her uninhibited style and improbable colour. Old and new, representative and super-real, subtle and bold, in all media, the Christmas exhibition may be seen at Art Matters Gallery and on the gallery website from December 1 until January 5. The gallery in South Parade, Tenby (opposite the Town Walls and next to the Fire Station) is open from 10 am to 5 pm every day, except Sundays and Wednesdays. Over the Christmas period, the gallery will be open every day except for Tuesday, December 25, and Sunday, December 30. Everyone is welcome. For further information, telephone 01834-843375 or email [email protected]">[email protected] or see the website http://www.artmatters.org.uk">www.artmatters.org.uk.
