The Fosse Gallery in Stow is forty years old. To celebrate this great achievement, owner, Sharon Wheaton asked a number of her artists to produce a piece of work on the theme of Ruby. So this years summer exhibition has a particular jewel like quality. I was lucky enough to be in Stow this morning for a sneak preview. 

Rubies are of course evocative of high emotions and the artists have not let the show down. Full of life and vitality this is a stunning way to celebrate this great anniversary. They have done the gallery proud with their various commissions. I was particularly taken by Ian Hargreaves Venice celebration – but then I would be you might say. We have a painting by the artist on our wall of a very tranquil woodland scene, but this look accross the Zattere with fireworks is something else.

In the exhibition guide Sharon says “For this celebratory exhibition I asked twenty Fosse Artists to paint, based on the ideas of Ruby and anniversary; included also is the work of the late Scottish artist Michael Scott representing a little something from the past.”

I also asked Sharon how she felt the health of contemporary art was outside London, after all the trials and tribulations of the years, this one in particular. “Of course it is a worry and it will be difficult but the good news is that the art is as strong, if not stronger than ever which is testament to the loyalty and talent of the artists. We need to hope the public can be as supportive.” On the basis of this exciting array of Ruby inspired paintings I hope so as well.

Bridget Langley”s Ruby is there with a great range of mainly figurative works including George Underwood, Michael De Bono and Mick Rooney RA amongst many more. Another head turner was the beautiful Crown of Tulips by Nicola Slattery.

The exhibitions opens at The Fosse Gallery in Stow on the Wold on Sunday 5th July and will show until the end of August. It is also available to view online.

Video time – enjoy a few celebrations from some of the artists. Click to see video