A new art exhibition will open this weekend featuring works by a trio of artists who sought mutual inspiration in multiple outings throughout the State.
"This is a really interesting collection, because we're looking at three very different artists drawing inspiration from a lot of shared trips to sketch, paint and draw," explained Margaret River Gallery director Salli Coppin.
Rockingham artist Andy Quilty was the first to be signed to the exhibition, and he suggested the show be expanded to encompass the work of his fellow artists.
Quilty has a Bachelor of Fine Art from Curtin University and a Diploma in Graphic Design, and has been a full-time practicing artist since 2009, winning a slate of accolades to his name in this short time.
"Well known for his ball point pen portraits, Andy continues to surprise us with his mark-making skills," said Ms Coppin.
"This exhibition sees him using graphite and paint in a series of smaller works inspired by his forays into plein air sessions."
Fellow WA artist Iain Dean has seen his works named finalists in many art awards, and in 2014 he won the highly acclaimed Black Swan portraiture prize for his painting of Pilar Mata Dupont.
"This new direction of work for Iain is inspired by friends and painting outdoors," said Ms Coppin.
"It is really amazing to see the different results from these creative minds given they are on the same outings in the same environments."
Predominantly focusing on what initially appears to be traditional still life, Yvonne Zago's intricate works display a deep storytelling element within the detailed designs of her vases.
"Yvonne completed her Bachelor of Arts at Edith Cowan University in painting and printmaking.
"This very popular artist is well known for her brightly coloured fantastical paintings, and brings to this exhibition a new direction in her intricate patterning in this new series of works.
Like Quilty, Zago has exhibited in the Salon des Refuses and was a finalist in the national works on paper award in the Mornington Peninsula, as well as People’s Choice award in the Albany Art prize 2018.
Ms Coppin said the new exhibition was a great chance for people to secure newly inspired works by the talented artists.
"This exhibition is not only worth viewing but is an easy choice for an art investment with these strong emerging artists," she said.
The Land Is Not Asleep opens at the Margaret River Gallery this Saturday February 23 from 6pm - 8pm. The artists will be appearing at the launch and will discuss their works with guests.
The exhibition will continue until March 25, 2019. For more info visit margaretrivergallery.com.au
