Affirmations of life
Bethlem Gallery
6th April – 1st June 2019
Please join us for the opening of Affirmations of life on Saturday 6th April 2019 with refreshments served from 3-5pm.
Affirmations of life is a solo exhibition by John O’Donnell presenting still lifes, landscapes and portraiture that span three decades of painting instinctively from observation.
With minimal strokes of his brush, John’s adept use of light and colour capture moments in time, sharing with us his enjoyment of the good things in life and of the people that have meaning to him. Views from windows and the play of light between interior and exterior spaces often feature in his paintings, articulating a sense of place and his affinity towards it.
“I have always found that working as a painter has given me a focus, a link with nature and great strength. The interaction of meeting other people in the arts is rewarding and gives me a sense of belonging. The enjoyment of the work gives me joy that carries me through life”
The exhibition is accompanied by printed guide featuring an introduction by Rebecca Salter RA, Keeper of the Royal Academy of Arts and an essay by painter Dan Howard-Birt.
Please download the exhibition guide HERE
Events
Painting still lives in acrylic
Workshop
Saturday 6th April 2019
10:30am- 12:30pm
£10/Free concessions
Bethlem Gallery
Join us to learn the basics of acrylic still life painting. Inspired by the work of exhibiting artist John O’Donnell, we will be painting expressive still lives of flowers, fruit and vegetables. We will be experimenting with light, tone and colour, using minimal brush strokes to define shape and form. At the end of the workshop you will take home your own still life painting.
Painting portraits in acrylic
Workshop
Saturday 4th May 2019
10:30am – 12:30pm
£10/Free concessions
Bethlem Gallery
Join us to learn the basics of acrylic portrait painting. Inspired by the work of exhibiting artist John O’Donnell, we will be painting expressive portraits direct from a model. We will be experimenting with light, tone and colour, using minimal brushstrokes to define shape and form. At the end of the workshop you will take home your own portrait painting.
Experimenting with charcoal
Workshop
Saturday 1st June 2019
10:30am – 12:30pm
£10/free concessions
Bethlem Gallery
Join us to experiment with charcoal. Inspired by the work of exhibiting artist John O’Donnell, we will be working with texture, movement, tone and pattern. There will be a series of quick exercises before moving on to drawing a portrait model in charcoal. Please bring an apron or clothes you don’t mind getting messy.
For all workshops:
No previous art experience necessary, all welcome. Under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult. Concessions are available for SLAM service users, people over 60, students, people on Job Seekers Allowance, people registered disabled and their carers.
If you are unable to attend the workshop, please contact us to cancel your place. We often have a waiting list.
