Chris Kettle Exhibition at Opus Gallery, Newcastle

The Opus is launching a new exhibition of work by critically acclaimed artist Chris Kettle

The North's premier contemporary art gallery, Opus (http://www.opus-art.com ), is launching a new exhibition of work by critically acclaimed artist Chris Kettle.

The unveiling of this much anticipated body of work by the Brighton based painter represents another coup for the Newcastle gallery. Still Life is Kettle's subject but visitors shouldn't expect a traditional serving: he is notorious for his subversive approach to the genre.

Drawing inspiration from 17th century Dutch Still Life painting, his distinctive, often dark and brooding style marries classic and contemporary influences. Beautifully rendered objects - opulent silverware, fruit and flowers - are depicted floating in dark space, with over-painted graphics, sometimes just a leafy outline, that cut through the centuries and remind us that the paintings are firmly rooted in today.

As Art Review stated, "Kettle turns the genre on its head to give personal and contemporary versions on the Still Life theme."

Kettle's work can be seen from February 7 to March 3. To coincide with the show, Opus is releasing an exclusive signed and limited print edition of two of the artist's most admired works, 'This is Precious I' and 'This is Precious II'.

Opus is the North's leading commercial gallery, selling work by established international artists and photographers as well as supporting the works of younger, emerging artists from around the world.

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