The Castle, the Boats and a Working Waterfront Since I first moved to Caernarfon and opened my art gallery in Hole in the Wall Street I have felt as if I am walking through history every day. With our imposing castle, impregnable stone walls and historic buildings I can almost hear the voices of our […]
The Next Custodian Some discoveries are made not in galleries, but in sale rooms. HECTOR CAFFIERI (British, 1847-1932) watercolour en grisaille – Breton fish girls waiting at a quayside, signed. Sale rooms are curious places. Every object waits with the same patient dignity, whether it is a masterpiece or merely a forgotten possession. The greatest […]
Still Life of a Pineapple Plant, Grapes and Peaches on a Table. British School, National Trust Did you know that the King of Spain was the first European to eat a pineapple when the fruit was transported back from the New World. (Seems appropriate given the outcome of this year’s World Cup Final). Only one […]
Framing has long held historical significance as an integral element of an artwork itself, rather than simply an addition made at the end of the creative process. From the great masterpieces of the 13th century onwards, the frame has played a vital role not only in presentation but also in authentication. Art historians often look […]
There is a moment each spring when the light changes. After months of grey skies and muted colour, the sun suddenly appears with a quiet confidence. People notice it immediately. Faces lift, conversations linger, and smiles appear almost unconsciously. Light has that effect on us. It always has. Artists, perhaps more than anyone, have paid […]
September marks the end of summer September, marking the transition from summer to autumn, has had a profound influence on many famous artists throughout history. This month, with its changing colours and light, has inspired a variety of works that capture the essence of this seasonal shift. One notable example is Vincent van Gogh, whose […]
The quest for great art has been a central pursuit throughout human history and continues right up to today. In ancient civilisations, such as Greece and Rome, art was deeply intertwined with religion and politics, exemplified by the grandeur of the architecture and the idealised sculptures of gods and athletes. Architecture and art that continues […]
Artistic influence down the centuries continues to inspire our artists at Life: Full Colour. Such is the case with Andrew Jenkin, a professional watercolour artists who is featured in the next solo exhibition at the gallery in Palas St, Caernarfon. Masterful Illustrator Arthur Rackham, a masterful illustrator known for his fantastical and detailed works. He […]
Art and literature go hand in hand. They can share a story, encourage you to explore new ideas, challenge beliefs, and provide an outlet for creative expression. So, there’s no surprise that we love books about art. Life:Full Colour Founder, Sara McKee FRSA, has put together her 10 favourite books about art. If you’re a […]
Sara McKee reflects on her visit to Amsterdam to see works by a prolific contemporary artist and two of the most revered artists of all time. Arrival: Back in the Zone. I last worked in Holland in 1997, now here I am in central Amsterdam and it feels like yesterday. There’s the same laid back […]
