Yorkshire Trees At Bingley Gallery

The next event at The Bingley Gallery ‘Our Wonderful Trees’, features the work of resident artist, David Starley: Oil paint is applied thickly with a knife to produce an almost sculpted image it’s hard to resist touching the-oh so realistic bark. By portraying the forms and character of individual trees, or groups in woodland, the viewer is led to a greater appreciation of these living structures - changeless yet changing, strong yet vulnerable; never to be taken for granted. David’s aim is to evoke an emotional response to our environment through his art. Do visit the exhibition, but, next time you pass a tree do let your gaze linger for a moment to appreciate its significance.

Most works are based on our immediate landscape, including Hirst Wood, which provides one option for the artist’s daily walk to work. It’s particularly pleasant at the moment with the increase bird song as we move into spring. Before too long the bluebells will make their appearance as is depicted on one of the show’s centrepieces ‘The Clearing’ which at 60x36 inches is the biggest work Starley has ever completed. The woods appear again at different times of the year; autumn of course and after last November’s early snow fall.

David’s tree and woodland paintings are accompanied by 3D work from a number of artists who work in wood. These include the panels of Gavin Edwards, turned wood from Mike Bentley, fractally burned items from Rustic Route, historic pieces by the late Joe Lee and sculpture from Paul Birch. A new wood worker, John Douglas was added very much at the last minute, to give him the opportunity to get some public feedback. David hopes that no trees were harmed in the making of these works. Most of the artists preferably use fallen or recycled timber from local sources.  As usual the galleryaims to promote artists from our own region who are doing something a little different.

A launch for the new show, will be held between 7 and 9 on Weds 19 March.

The exhibition runs 20 March to 5 May Thurs – Sun 10.00 to 17-00