On May 16th, Ben Oakley Gallery will present an exhibition by two very different artists, both have an immersive quality that commands the viewer to stare and drift into each drawing with total disbelief at the accuracy sharpness and depth delivered by the humble pen. David Bray's imagination flows effortlessly and some what other worldly through each piece, which have been ripped directly from his sketchbooks. There is a nonchalant approach to the presentation that is heavily bolstered by his deft skills and cohesiveness.
Mark Powell's drawings are executed in Biro which in itself adds to the nostalgic feeling of the subject matter. Mark concentrates on the elder generation shading and accurately recording the lines and wrinkles of these character filled faces. To add to the story line of each Portrait they are drawn onto vintage envelopes and manuscripts over the original handwritten addresses and in certain cases red wax seals and Postage stamps left on the documents add a flash of colour.
With over thirty absolutely amazing drawings on show this is a real spring boost for the creative soul and the real meaning of the Phrase ‘The Pen is ...’ is truly laid bare.
