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Well we were not fortunate with the weather at Pittenweem for the first year ever however it did not detract from my enjoyment of this fabulous art feast!
There was the usual vast range of work exhibited. Vast in media subject, matter and quality. On previous occasions I have been rather disappointed with the invited artists but this year two of them were truly amazing. The first was Dave Cohen whose clay work demonstrates his extensive knowledge of raku and his concern with the design process. The second was the painter Adrian Wiszniewski. It was his bold detailed compositions that particularly impressed me. Their size and scale is indeed something that I hope to aspire to.
Of the artists in the regular venues I (and a great number of other people judging by the red spots and commissions) was most impressed by Jim Flemings acrylic and pastel works. His choice of palette and uncluttered compositions resulted in some very moving pieces. In direct contrast to his style the work of painter Margaret Smyth also impressed me. Her rich dark pallet was perfect for her fantasy work, full of magical detail which was difficult to do justice to in such a short visit.
I regret to say that for another year the photography did not impress. I felt most of the photographic work lacked imagination and I was left unmoved. I think there is room in the festival for more complex photographic work to be exhibited - perhaps they could start by making a photographer one of their invited artists by way of a juried competition.
Recently I have been questioning why I am drawn to fantasy themes in my work. As a trained scientist this does seem a major detour along life’s path for me or maybe this just confirms the scientific route was the wrong path to follow altogether.
Fantasy contains powerful ideas and concepts such as ecology, brotherhood, mythology and symbolism to name but a few. Traditional fantasy is deeply rooted in our past and our civilisation – it talks about where we come from. The world of fantasy sits perfectly with the residency project at the museum and is a major factor in my excitement about this project.