Published on 18 July 2019
The University of Sunderland’s own Head of Art and Design is holding a new exhibition reflecting his changing artistic style.
Professor Kevin Petrie has taught for many years in the University’s Glass and Ceramics department based at the National Glass Centre (NGC).
Although Kevin is known for his work in glass, ceramics and printmaking, his passion lies with drawing and painting, as demonstrated in his latest exhibition.
Kevin’s subject matter is often landscape and over the last three years, his work has evolved from figurative paintings made directly in the landscape to increasingly abstract pieces made in the studio.
Kevin said: "I currently have this exhibition plus two pieces of artwork in the NGC21 show, which celebrates 21 years of NGC, so I’m quite well represented this summer in National Glass Centre.
“I showed landscape drawings on this balcony about 15 years ago so it’s great to be showing new works. Over the last three years my work has evolved.
“This has been the result of attending three summer painting workshops as a student which has really made my practice change. Perhaps a good example of lifelong learning.”
Kevin says he undergoing something of a creative renaissance as he heads towards an important milestone.
He added: “Now I’m approaching 50 next year, in the last couple of years I feel my creativity is more confident than for long time and I’m feeling the same kind of enjoyment and discovery as I first felt as an art student 30 years ago."
"These pieces, made with acrylic on board and occasional mixed media, are all based on sketchbook drawings made while travelling through landscape and memories of travel.
“This includes train and car travel, walking and even swimming in open water. I make small drawings based on things seen during these journeys. The places that have inspired these paintings include Marrakesh, St Ives, the Lake District and Sunderland.
“Then back in the studio, another kind of journey takes place through the making of the pieces as the original ideas often develop and change into something different as the pieces evolve.”
‘Journeys - Painted reliefs by Kevin Petrie’ is currently on show in the National Glass Centre on the Balcony Gallery and runs until October 6.
Tea, Cake and Conversation: A chance to informally discuss the ‘Journeys’ exhibition with Kevin Petrie will happen on Friday, July 19, 2pm to 4pm in the National Glass Centre's Balcony Gallery.