The London Original Print Fair (LOPF), the oldest specialist print fair worldwide, celebrates its 40th anniversary from 20th-23rd March 2025 at Somerset House. Since 1985, it has grown from 16 exhibitors to over 40 leading galleries and studios, showcasing prints across six centuries, from old masters to contemporary artists.

Visitors will have the chance to view and collect original prints by renowned artists like Chris Levine, David Shrigley, Peter Blake, and many others. This year’s edition includes an exhibition titled “Prints from Private Collections: 40 years of Print Collecting,” featuring works loaned by various collectors that highlight evolving printmaking trends.

LOPF also relaunches the Hallett Independent Acquisitions Award, granting £8,000 for acquiring works at the fair, reinforcing its commitment to public collections. Applications run until 3rd February 2025, with the awardee announced during the event.

Exhibitors for the anniversary include White Cube, showcasing female artists like Tracey Emin, while Hauser & Wirth will present significant prints from various celebrated international artists. Advanced Graphics London will highlight 40 years of Royal Academicians’ works, while Tate will feature exclusive new editions by contemporary artists.

For the first time, international artists from China, Japan, and India will be represented, with emerging talents’ works reflecting personal and cultural narratives. Collectors can explore a range of printmaking styles, enriching their understanding of this dynamic art form.

The London Original Print Fair is notable for its longevity and influence in the printmaking community, making it a key event for art collectors and enthusiasts alike. Established in 1985, it has adapted over the years, especially during the COVID pandemic, but remains a premier platform for artists and galleries to showcase their work. The fair is significant in promoting printmaking as a vital part of the art landscape, demonstrating its accessibility and historical importance.

The 40th edition of the London Original Print Fair promises to be a vibrant celebration of printmaking, featuring a rich variety of works from both historical and contemporary artists. With special exhibitions and awards, it continues to foster a deeper appreciation of prints within the art community.

Original Source: www.artsandcollections.com

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A Bridport artist, Simon Elliott, has gained recognition for his compelling works, which will be showcased in a political art exhibition in London called “Rage Against The Dying Of The Light.” Running from January 3 to February 2 at the Omnibus Theatre in Clapham Common, hosted by the Red Art Club, the exhibition features works from 21 artists addressing diverse political themes.

Elliott’s pieces aim to explore historical art’s commentary on war and loss, inspired by masters such as Picasso and Michelangelo. One featured painting, “Oh What Lovely Wall Art,” represents his great-niece Mollie as Cupid taming the lions of war, symbolising a child’s potential to influence adult decisions towards peace. The artwork, created with acrylic, pen, and pencil on canvas, employs a mixed-media approach to depict narratives of wartime suffering and the capacity of art to evoke change.

His second painting addresses the ramifications of gas flares from BP on communities, particularly focusing on the connection between toxic emissions and child cancer cases in regions like Iraq. He originally had the piece commissioned by the British Museum for a project responding to a Michelangelo exhibition but encountered restrictions on discussing political issues regarding BP sponsorship. “I hope such images can help inform and open conversations about how we look after local communities…” he remarked, reflecting on the importance of amplifying overlooked voices. Elliott finds inspiration from his surrounding Bridport landscape, often depicting the views of Colmers Hill.

This article discusses Simon Elliott, an artist from Bridport, who has been invited to participate in a significant political art exhibition in London. Political art aims to address and provoke discussions around current sociopolitical issues, using various artistic styles and mediums to convey powerful messages. Elliott’s works specifically tie in elements reflecting historical perspectives on war and contemporary issues related to corporations and community health, showing the intersection of personal experiences and broader political contexts.

In summary, Simon Elliott’s participation in the London exhibition not only showcases his artistic talent but also highlights pressing social issues. His works delve into historical art’s relevance in contemporary political discourse, bridging personal narratives with larger community concerns. The exhibition presents an opportunity for audiences to engage with thought-provoking themes of war, loss, and corporate responsibility, fostered through Elliott’s expressive art.

Original Source: www.bridportnews.co.uk

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A Bridport artist, Simon Elliott, has had two of his pieces accepted into the political art exhibition “Rage Against The Dying Of The Light” at the Omnibus Theatre in Clapham Common, London, from January 3 to February 2. Hosted by the Red Art Club, the exhibition showcases work from 21 artists addressing various political themes. Elliott’s first piece, “Oh What Lovely Wall Art,” depicts his great-niece as Cupid taming the ferociousness of war, highlighting the role of children in influencing adult decisions during conflicts. His second piece comments on the health impacts of gas flares from BP’s operations in Iraq, linking it to rising cancer cases among children. This work is a response to censorship faced during a collaboration with the British Museum on a piece reflecting Michelangelo’s work. Elliott attributes much of his inspiration to the Bridport area, often painting local landscapes such as Colmers Hill.

Political art is an influential medium used by artists to raise awareness and provoke dialogue surrounding critical societal issues. Exhibitions like “Rage Against The Dying Of The Light” provide a platform for artists to explore themes of war, loss, and corporate responsibility. Simon Elliott’s participation highlights a growing perspective among artists that their work can catalyse conversations around urgent political topics.

Simon Elliott’s inclusion in the political art exhibition showcases his exploration of significant themes such as war and corporate negligence. His desire to use art to inspire change illustrates the important role of artists in addressing societal issues. The exhibition promises to provoke discussion among viewers about the impact of war and community welfare.

Original Source: www.bridportnews.co.uk

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London artist John Duffin captures the vibrancy of urban life through his paintings, with his latest exhibition at Hampstead’s Catto Gallery featuring striking images of Parliament and Primrose Hill.

Running from December 4 to December 22, this collection includes oil paintings inspired by London, New York, and notable Art Deco architecture like Brighton’s Saltdean Lido. Duffin explains that the artwork reflects his distinctive colour palette and draughtsmanship informed by drawings made on-site.

The artist’s career spans 43 years, beginning in draughtsmanship and transitioning to printmaking. His works are represented in several esteemed collections, and he has received numerous accolades for his art. Duffin hopes his exhibition will uplift and inspire the community.

John Duffin is a prominent London-based artist known for his dynamic representations of cityscapes, which he captures through extensive drawing and observation. His artistic journey has evolved from his background in naval architecture to a focus on painting and printmaking. This exhibition showcases his love for urban settings and highlights his skill in translating the essence of the city onto canvas, reflecting the social atmosphere of both London and New York.

John Duffin’s exhibition at Catto Gallery showcases his latest paintings, celebrating the vibrancy of urban life in London and beyond. His unique artistic style combines meticulous draughtsmanship with a vivid colour palette, making the exhibition a worthwhile visit from December 4 to 22. The collection underscores Duffin’s passion for capturing the essence of place and community, aiming to bring joy to viewers.

Original Source: www.thisislocallondon.co.uk

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