Laura Ann Gibson - Artist supports Art Promoting the Environment - APE

Laura Ann Gibson - Artist

Laura is the next generous artist waiting in the wings to contribute to the 
Orangutan Protection Foundation cause. She has generously donated a beautiful piece of her work entitled When Tomorrow Comes a painting that draws you into its surroundings

and helps you lose yourself in the sunlight and the trees.

9pm 10th November 2013. This auction is now live supporting and Orangutan Caring Week.

When Tomorrow Comes

www.ebay.co.uk

When Tomorrow Comes in Art, Artists (Self-Representing), Drawings | eBay

Laura says,

WHEN TOMORROW COMES is my perception of one of my favourite pictures on my Face Book Timeline which I commissioned to do recently for a lady in Scotland but in Purple and Pinks, I tend to get lost in the art zone, as my mother puts it, and I was listening to one of my favourite artist's Annie Lennox ( EURYTHMICS ) while painting this and I felt it fitted very well on what I was trying to tell the viewer. I get drawn into ( if you will excuse the pun ) my work and  musical notes become colours sometimes it helps with the flow of my art and, it is the fuel that fires my soul and always will be.

 I was so happy when I was asked to donate a painting for the OPF ... it is such a worthy cause and after watching Terry P. on TV my heart melted at what this man started along with a lot of wonderful people. There are so many causes on our planet and I feel we, as not just a nation but as human beings globally, should do what we can with the skills and talents we have been blessed with. :-)

When Tomorrow Comes

Laura is a talented self-taught artist. She originates from Girvan, a small fishing town on the south west coast of Ayrshire in Scotland known for it s connection to the famous poet Robert Burns. However, she is now based in Ingleton, a pretty village set in the heart of Three Peaks Country on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Ingleton is surrounded by magnificent countryside with caves, waterfalls and mountains. The village website tells us that 'the Craven Fault crosses the area and geological and archaeological sites abound.' No doubt this is one of those special places that is a haven for the landscape artist.

I recently caught up with Laura so was able to ask her some questions: 

Q: Can you tell us what inspires you to pick up your brushes?

A: I believe the original inspiration for my art comes from being born and bred in Girvan, plus, always being surrounded by hills and beautiful countryside. And rain. Nature comes to life when it rains, every colour is enhance and I love it. These days Mother Nature continues to inspire me especially as I am out walking with my wee dog Spot most days. 

When I paint I have music in my head and in my heart.

Beezely Stepping Stones
For Sale

Q: How would you describe your style of painting?

A: I would say that through my love of drawing landscapes since childhood and watching fantasy movies like 'The Dark Crystal' I have combined the love of these into my own style of painting. I have not really thought about what style I have but I have been told it is unique, and I have also been compared to Tolkien’s style. I would say it is free spirited and natural. 

Q: Can you tell us which medium you prefer to work in?

A:  I prefer to paint with Acrylics. Sometimes I mix them with water colours and pencil.

Q: How do you decide which medium to use?

A: I do not really pick the type of medium I am going to use as I prep with pencil and then pick up my paints and brushes and go with the flow.

Q: What is your favourite thing to paint?

A: I love painting landscapes; mother nature is so beautiful in so many different ways. 

Reflections
For Sale

Q: Is there any subject that won’t you paint or draw?

A: I am happy to give anything a try - as an artist one has to be open minded.

Q: Which artists do you admire?

A: I admire Salvador Dali and Van Gough.

Ribbleshead Viaduct, North Yorkshire.
For Sale

Q: If you could invite anyone (living or dead) for afternoon tea who would it be, and why?

A: Oh, it has to be Dali. I think in some ways I am like him; he was off the wall and pushed the boundries of art. Many of his paintings, like mine, show different perspectives to what others see.

Q: Do you find it hard selling or handing over your work?

A: No, I do not really find it hard to sell my work. If anything I am overjoyed when someone loves my art so much they want to buy it. 

I am more than happy to donate my art to the cause of a worthy charity and I am proud to be able to help Orangutan Protection Foundation in this way.

Phantom Noel
For Sale

Q: Do you have a favourite colour?

A: Yes! Ever since I was a little girl my favourite colour has always been red.

Q: Do you have an exhibition running at the moment?

A: I have paintings on display in The Wheat Sheaf in Ingleton all of which are for sale. Visitors can enjoy a drink, a good meal and or simply spend time in a comfortable seat while enjoying the display.

Once Upon A Time
For Sale

Q: What’s next?

A: To keep painting. I'm driven by the desire to create. But, I want to encourage more people to experience the pleasure and fun creating art can bring. I am in the process of bringing together some of the local artists in my village in the hope of forming an Art Society. Then we can offer workshops and talks. This is in the early stages but we have been offered the use of a room in The Three Horse Shoes in Ingleton; a very sociable venue indeed. Once things are in place details will appear on my website and Facebook page.

Q: Where will readers find your website?

A: It's www.xanadufantasyart.com     

Details of the paintings shown For Sale here can be found on the website.

Q: And finally, do you take commissions?

A: I am happy to take commissions. 

For more information please email Laura at:  myart_1970@hotmail.co.uk

Laura at work

          

Mandy Jane Barrett is the first of we hope many artists to join the APE (art promoting the environment) ranks!

I want to introduce you to Mandy Jane Barrett a talented artist based in County Durham, England, a long time supporter of orangutans and a good friend of mine. 



The first print -  number 1 of a limited edition of only 50 - of her wonderful portrait 'Dignity' is currently being auctioned on Ebay in support of  the 2013 World Orangutan Day which is 19th August, and all money raised will go directly to the Orangutan Protection Foundation.

'Mandy strives to capture the expression of an animal, focussing on the eyes in particular. Colour, texture and structure of plants and animals fascinates and inspires her work. The crux of her art centres on highlighting the relationship that we humans have with the natural world. Nature is so fragile, and Mandy's technique truly reflects that in her paintings.'

To bid please follow the link below:

Dignity - Limited Edition 1/50 Print

www.ebay.co.uk

Dignity - Limited Edition 1/50 Print in Art, Prints, Contemporary (1980-Now) | eBay

Here are some Q and A's to help you get to know her better.

Q: What medium do you prefer to work in?

A: I usually work in acrylic, watercolour or graphite.

Q: How do you decide which you're going to use? 

A: I tend to use graphite for preliminary sketches to plan a painting. I find myself using acrylic far more in the last couple of years. It dries quickly, as I'm too impatient to wait for some media to dry. It's so versatile and can be applied in different techniques, allowing me to try new things. I love the intensity of colour that can be achieved.

Q: Most of your work is of fauna and flora, what inspires you to pick up your brushes? 

A: I enjoy capturing the expression of an animal, tending to focus on the eyes in particular. Colour, texture and structure of plants and animals has me fascinated. I find myself wanting to paint dogs that have expressive eyes and textured coats such as lurchers or smooth dark coats with crisp highlights. I try to focus on the relationship that we humans have with the natural world. Nature is so fragile, I need to show that in my paintings.

Q: What won't you paint or draw?

A: I don't enjoy doing compositional pieces. I've tried one or two but find it frustrating having to fuss over getting two or more subjects to look as though they belong together on one canvas. I get preoccupied with the technical aspects which hampers my creativity and enjoyment. A while back I was asked to take a commission of a dog dressed up as a fairy! I prefer dogs in their natural state and know I would never be happy with the end result so I politely declined! As art is for leisure and pleasure for me I'm fortunate that I can say 'yes' to commissions that inspire me.

Q: What formal training have you had?

A: I started my art A level after school but had to leave when my Dad became ill. I worked in reprographics when I left school and trained in the more technical aspects of graphic art. Other than that I have taken one or two classes; I prefer reading about techniques and materials or just trying things out to learn from experience rather than being formally taught.

Q: Which artists do you admire?

A: I adore the work of Christophe Drochon; his hyper realism approach to studies of animals fascinates me. The way he captures light and detail is amazing. He inspired me to try painting on fibreboard.

In my teens I looked at a lot of surrealist artists work such as Dali (who didn't late 70's & early 80's?).

Q: Do you find it hard selling or handing over your work?

A: Frequently! I now keep a print if I can as I rarely used to keep any of my own work other than a digital photo for my own catalogue. For years my walls were virtually bare!

Q: What is your favourite colour?

A: Bright vibrant red. My entire wardrobe is built around co-ordinating with an accent of red. I love shades of red in nature; leaves in autumn or a puffin's beak and how a poppy at the side of the road catches the eye.

Q: What is your favourite animal to paint?

A:  Anything with a textured coat and expressive eyes; lurchers, terriers, cobs and, of course, orangutans.

Q: Do you have an exhibition running at the moment?
A:  A selection of limited editions prints are on show at Broom Mill, just outside of Bishop Auckland in County Durham.  My Facebook page has an album of photos.

Q: What's next? 

A: More animals, more work in acrylic as there's so much I still want to do. I have some commissions in the pipeline. I also want to try more varied subjects including landscapes and try working on a much larger scale. One day I'll have more time to paint and won't have to fit around full time career commitments.

Jet in Acrylic

Masham Midsummer Arts Crafts & Collectables Fair Orangutan Protection Fo...

On Sunday 23 June 2013 in Masham Town Hall a very special Midsummer Fair fundraiser took place when Masham welcomed Dr. Grainne McEntee and her team from the charity Orangutan Protection Foundation to North Yorkshire in true Yorkshire fashion. The event, sponsored by local traders and anonymous donations, was opened by Mr. John Todd, Masham Town Crier, in grand style.

Over thirty artists, crafters and writers showcased their work; the ladies of Fearby & Healey W.I. did a splendid job running the Tea Room and, if you saw a friendly orangutan roaming around Masham that was local supporter and volunteer Amy Addison.

To encourage involvement in ape conservation and highlight the work of OPF local children were invited to submit poems and posters about orangutans living free. There were 3 classes and Ellen Dean, local author and OPF Ambassador, announced the judge's three Favourites On The Day submitted from: Chloe Middleton (painting), Hayley Abbott (painting) and Dougie Charles (poem). Masham Primary School Reception Class Poster 'A Helping Hand' received a special award, as did the poem submitted by Ian Newbould.
Plus, the clever pupils of Masham Primary School created a wonderful rain forest in the committee room for everyone to enjoy, complete with authentic rainforest sounds.

A fun and happy day all round and I am delighted to announce we raised over £1400.00 and we are still counting.

A massive thank you to everyone for their generous support and making this event possible. Especially Ellen Dean who is now an ambassador for OPF, and Amy Addison who dressed as an orang-utan for the day.

It's not too late to add to the pot. Every penny counts. Donations to the charity can be made on-line at www.opf.org

Midsummer Fair Sunday 23 June 2013 an Orangutan Protection Foundation Fundraiser with a difference.

Midsummer Fair Sunday 23 June 2013

Orangutan Protection Foundation Fundraiser

Orangutan Protection Foundation comes to Masham, North Yorkshire, UK on Sunday 23 June 2013 to participate in a special Midsummer Arts, Crafts and Collectables Fair in Masham Town Hall a fundraiser for the charity.

Get there early and see Mr. John Todd, Masham Town Crier, officially open the event at 10am.  

Artists, crafters, writers and illustrators from all over the UK are attending, so with a wide selection wonderful work and interesting stalls to browse, there will be something for everyone. Plus, you get the chance to meet and talk with many of the artists, crafters and writers. 

This special Midsummer Fair is a fund raiser for the Orangutan Protection Foundation and OPF's  UK Head of Operations, Dr. Gainne McEntee will be attending. OPF support Nyaru Menteng Rescue Sanctuary, which has more than 600 orangutans in its care, and Restorasi Habitat Orangutan Indonesia, which provides a permanent and safe home for those orangutans who are able to be returned to the wild.

Dr. McEntee will present a short film (am and pm) about orangutans in the Committee Room which, thanks to pupils of a local primary school, will be transformed into a rain forest for the day. If you want to know more about orangutans, learn about the work of OPF, get involved or become an Orangutan Protector then this is your chance.

How YOU can join in:

Poetry Competition: Open to children of UK primary school age. The theme of the competition is: 'Imagine the forest as a free Orangutan' 

OPF ran this competition for World Poetry Day last month and had a wonderful positive response from schools and libraries round the UK. There will be a prize for the winner so please encourage your children to participate and bring their own poems along on the day.

Art Competition: Open to everyone, and divided into 2 categories: 18 and over and under 18s. Any format/medium allowed. 

The theme is: 'Imagine the forest as a free Orangutan' Please bring entries to the Fair on 23 June 2013. 

After the Fair the Art Competition entries will be taken to OPF headquarters in London, however, a 'favourite painting' will be chosen on the day from each category and those artists will receive a prize.

Of course, the ultimate prize will be having your painting as the new OPF Christmas Card.

And ... there's a 'Name The Orangutan' competition.

See the orangutan car: 

Green Tree from Strathpeffer in Scotland, long term supporters of OPF, will be attending the event and bringing their amazing Orangutan car for everyone to see.

ALL exhibitors stall fees will go directly to the charity. This has been made possible thanks to the generosity of many local businesses supporting the event with cash or kind donations, plus donations from supporters who wish to remain anonymous.

Some of our exhibitors:

The Mucky Pup Gallery: Lindsey Starborn Art - Pots and Paintings: Jill Campbell - artist: Anne Flowers - artist: McKinley and Moth - handmade silver jewellery and textile gifts: Jill McDonald - artist: Oakwod Aromatics: Japan Crafts: Lulu Gifts/Oh My Steampunk: M. Bryer - decorative wood turner: Hardy Photographic: BaBa Productions Childrens Books: Glynis Clark - craft teacher and retailer of card making products: LR - collectables and baby gifts: Mandy Barrett - artist: Sarah Tweedie - artist: Kim Tillyer/witchmountain - mixed media artist: David Haddock - writer: Pat Everest - artist: Daniella Mercedes Morrison - artist: Annie @ Crabcrafts: 3D Contemporary Craft: Rob Blades - artist: Low Sutton Wool - yarns and knitting kits produced in Yorkshire: Re-Suze - recycled/reworked textiles: Gary Keat - fine art photography: Sue Orrey-Godden - fine artist: M. Robinson - artist: Clare Lindley - papercut artist: Yvonne Schofield - handmade cards: Susan Rooke - artist: Matthew Rooke - sequential artist  illustrator: Green Tree: .... and ME!

Some of our supporters: 

Ellen Dean - Writer and Executive Producer; Forrest House Veterinary Ltd, Masham; KB Equine Therapy Ripon; P. Lofthouse, Dairyman, Grewelthorpe; W.S. Rogers and Sons, Family Butchers, Masham; R.O.M. Window Cleaning, Masham; Fearby and Healey WI; Beavers Family Butchers; Fiona Mazza - Ceramic Artist, Harrogate; Masham Post Office; No. 12 Fresh Produce, Masham; Chris Almond, Homeopathic Vet, Masham; Reah's Delicatessen, Masham; Masham Co-op; Jamesons Country Store, Masham; Masham Community Office.

For more info please contact event organiser and long term Orangutan supporter Gloria Fletcher via gloriasgallery@gmail.com or OPF. 

Arranging this event has taken over just about everything for the past six months but to help these precious apes is all that matters. It will be a good day out in the historic town of Masham that sits in lower Wensleydale, North Yorkshire, UK. I hope you are able to  come along, join in and help us to Save Orangutans Together. 

Thanks to everyone who has helped and supported me with this event; I could not do this without you.

Ballindalloch Castle

We love the Scottish Highlands and we love castles too. Ballindalloch Castle in Speyside is one of our favourite places to visit. The castle looks as if it belongs in a fairy tale and the grounds and walled garden are just wonderful. It's not surprising that this is now a popular wedding venue.

This is a painting I did some time ago of one wing of the castle and it's done in mixed medium and with a little artistic licence :-)

This is also a fresh photograph that I've taken of the framed painting because the original photo is one of those that has disappeared into my computer-world ether......hence it's behind glass and the image is not quite level but it has a blue mount and a lovely frame and both suit the painting well.

This painting is For Sale. If you are interested in buying it then please message me for details.

Ballindalloch Castle, Speyside, Scotland.
FOR SALE.

Save our Orang-utans

Orang-utans are very close to my heart. They are extremely intelligent, beautiful, peaceful creatures and one of our nearest relatives and yet their rainforest habitat is being systematically destroyed by mankind, as are they.

I could rant and rattle on about their plight but it would serve more purpose for them if you follow this link to the www.orangutanprotectionfoundation.org to see the wonderful life saving work they do for yourselves. You can also sign up for their regular email newsletter.

You can do something positive and help to save the orang-utans, including their orphaned babies. Any amount of money you can spare will help, be it large or small, a one off or regular donation.
Every single penny is so important and can mean the difference between life or death. Their lives are precious and if you are able to help give them hope of having a future, then please do it now. From their website you can donate on line. Thank you.

Here is one of my pencil orang-tan drawings. I hope you like it.

Shy Baby Orang-utan
by Gloria Fletcher

Moonlight Seascape - Watercolour

Although my passion is animal portraits I also enjoy working in watercolours.

Here is something completely different ... and one of my favourite paintings - a moonlight seascape that I worked wet-in-wet. It hangs where I can enjoy it every day.

Moonlight Seascape by Gloria Fletcher