Tower and Town, September 2018 (view the full edition)Arts ReviewCapturing the natural landscape never ceases to inspire, motivate and stimulate artists who, like Andrea Allen, want to celebrate the colours, textures and beauty of our (though currently still a little parched) green surroundings. Andrea's work has a style of deceptive naivety. The overall appearance of the paintings could at first seem a little illustrative, however, the design, shape, and overall composition are far more vivid, detailed and closely observed than one might initially suppose.  Growing up in the Yorkshire Dales, Andrea was captivated by acres of rolling hills, dramatic scenery and stone wall boundaries. A combination of fascination and desire led the artist to emulate these humble scenes in her own style. Arguably, it is the glorious use of oil paint that makes these imaginatively vivid depictions of the great outdoors memorable and attractive - the viscosity and richness of the oil is the perfect finish. Proven typically popular in landscape paintings are scenes of nature, children, farmland and the feeling of freedom and escape. Although the size of the paintings is comparatively very small to a lot of other exhibitions we've had, Andrea Allen has conveyed this sense of freedom, spaciousness and outdoor enchantment wonderfully. Reflecting on her life as a working mother, these paintings are intended to be understood (through their title as well as subject) as a nostalgic journey that translates thought on climate, nature and ordinary adventures. 'Andrea Allen, Say Goodbye To High Days and Holidays An Exhibition of New Paintings' was at The White Horse Gallery from 1st August - 1st September 2018. Gabriella Venus |