Galleries - December 2014

CHRISTMAS GALLERIES 9 silver, the hand-woven silk scarf and the delicate piece of studio pottery, to name but a few. Indeed, the range of applied arts on offer is as broad as the talent of the people dedicating their lives to making such designs. And each piece carries with it the soul of the person who lovingly created it, and it is this that makes the gift of art so truly special. Among the listings here you will find a plethora of galleries specialising in such works – so happy festive hunting. I sincerely hope you will not only find the perfect gift, but will receive one too. Merry Christmas, one and all! Charlotte Fiell of Fiell book publishers has been writing and editing, along with her husband Peter, highly popular art and design books for 20 years on subjects as diverse as hairstyles and homeware. good recce of what’s on offer before making any purchasing decisions. From a large oil painting or a piece of sculpture to a limited edition photograph or a small signed woodcut, contemporary fine art comes in all different shapes, sizes and styles to suit every imaginable taste and budget. If you are feeling a bit stuck take the advice of a gallery, as they’ll know better than anyone what artists’ work would fit the person and your budget. Even better, if you have the inclination, why not commission a special piece of art from an artist via his or her dealer? And, of course, not only is a work of art a far more heart- felt gift than say a handbag or an electronic gadget, it is also one that will stand the test of time and might even over the years appreciate in value. It is also one of the greenest gifting options and by purchasing fine art you are helping to keep creatively talented people doing what they do best. All in all fine art is a win-win gift option . . . Fine art is not your only choice. The whole realm of the contemporary applied arts is also at hand to let you find the perfect present. The bespoke piece of furniture, the beautiful handmade box, the exquisite piece of hand-crafted jewellery, the shimmering piece of one-off on the COVER Dean Patman ‘Leaf Beetle’ mixed media sculpture, 41l x 19w x 18h cm at Medici Gallery, London The Galleries Christmas List – for the ultimate in art presence (or even presents) follow the Galleries pick for the festive season over the next few pages. If you want to see more visit the gallery or view their websites – most galleries are delighted to chat through your choices and have art and craft to suit most pockets. For even more inspiration go to the Galleries magazine website – www.galleries.co.uk where we list over 300 of the UK’s best. Medici Gallery www.medicigallery.co.uk In the run up to Christmas, Medici Gallery is exhibiting a contemporary sculpture show from the 12th November to 9th December, with prices from £500 to £20,000. From the 12th December, we will also be exhibiting paintings by our established and emerging gallery artists. Medici Gallery, South Kensington (26 Thurloe Street) has a fabulous choice of Advent calendars, Christmas cards & presents. 5 Cork Street, London W1S 3LQ t: 020 7495 2565 info@medicigallery.co.uk Dean Patman ‘Rhino’ 42cm long 12cm wide and 18cm high art Presence