Artist sheds light on Northern Soul

Apr 18 2008 by Allison Dickinson, Chester Chronicle

A CHESTER art gallery is hosting an event to celebrate the work of a contemporary artist.

From window cleaner to widely-acclaimed observer of northern life, the enigmatic Alexander Millar will be visiting Castle Galleries, St Michael’s Row, The Mall Grosvenor, tomorrow (April 19) from noon-3pm.

He will be unveiling his latest body of work entitled Northern Soul, which will feature in the gallery from mid-April and throughout the summer.

Gallery manager John Cheadle said: “We are thrilled to have this talented artist come to Chester and we’ll be serving up champagne to mark this special event in the gallery.

“Alexander Millar really is a breath of fresh air and his art has proved hugely popular amongst a growing band of loyal collectors and new fans discovering his unique ‘Gadgie’ style.”

Despite never receiving any professional tuition, Millar enjoyed early success with a number of sell-out exhibitions at the start of his career.

His first paintings were landscapes but, following a move from Scotland to Newcastle, he found himself becoming fascinated by the lives of Newcastle’s working class ‘Gadgies’ in their baggy suits and flat-caps, which became the entire focus for his work.

His unique, witty and poignant portrayal of these characters are instantly recognisable and a huge hit amongst art fans.

Millar’s latest collection features six new limited edition pieces and include Take The High Road, We’ll Meet Again, Northern Lights, Home is Where the Heart Is, Reach For The Sky and When The Boat Comes In.

Chester Castle Galleries is located at 18 St Michael’s Row, The Mall Grosvenor, in Chester, and opens from 9am-5.30pm Monday to Saturday and 11am-5pm on Sunday.

For more information visit www.castlegalleries.com or telephone the gallery on 01244 345800.