Inspiring artists to be exhibited at Beecroft Art Gallery

July 2, 2017 by Michael Shelley

Monday 3rd July 2017

Two new exhibitions by Essex artists will be unveiled at the Beecroft Art Gallery this month.

‘A Painter’s Life’ by local Southend-on-Sea resident Maurice Dolphin is open from 8 July – 12 August. Maurice grew up at his family home in Trinity Road, Southend-on-Sea, and attended Hamstel Road School. Between the ages of 15 and 17, Maurice studied Life Drawing at the Southend School of Art.

Maurice works from his artist’s studio where he paints his large scale portraits and landscapes. The type of academic painting favoured is in a similar style to Franz Winterhalter, Frederico de Madrazo and William Bouguereau. Subjects include notable people from history, including members of Royal Families and he has painted a number of portraits of Florence Nightingale, a favourite subject for Maurice.

In his later life Maurice has faced many life restricting challenges, especially to his health, but above all he is proof that for an artist, there’s no obstacle that can prevent creativity.

‘Retrospective’ by Gordon Gambier is the second exhibition that will be delighting visitors to the Beecroft Art Gallery in Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea from 15 July – 9 September. As a schoolboy Gordon had a successful career in amateur boxing, becoming National Junior A.B.A Champion in 1984.

After studying photography at school and gaining a grade A at O-Level, Gordon studied at Thurrock College from 1985, receiving a BTEC National Diploma in General Art & Design. Since graduating from Hull with BA (Hons) in Fine Art in 1991, Gordon has been painting full time.

Gordon has exhibited in various venues across Essex since the 1990’s, including open exhibitions and libraries. ‘Retrospective’ is his largest solo exhibition and looks back on his painting career to date. Further works by Gordon are available to view online.

Cllr Ann Holland, Executive Councillor for Culture, Tourism and the Economy said: “It is wonderful to have two very talented artists with such different art styles exhibiting in Southend-on-Sea.

“The Beecroft Art Gallery offers residents and visitors a wide variety of fascinating exhibitions in many different styles and art forms, so I urge people to visit and view Gordon and Maurice’s inspiring art work.”

‘A Painter’s Life’ by Maurice Dolphin begins 8 July – 12 August and ‘Retrospective’ by Gordon Gambier will be exhibited from 15 July – 9 September. The Beecroft Art Gallery is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm.