'The Catch' of the Day!

On Friday 16th March we unveiled a new artwork by Island artist Michael Forrest. It's on the corner of Columbine Road, near to the Esplanade in East Cowes and we can actually see it from our office which is particularly lovely! The piece entitled 'The Catch' is an Arts and Business 'New Partners' collaborative commission between us and A J Wells & Sons Vitreous Enamellers. The partnership came as a direct result of our 'The ART of Business' sponsorship day (also supported by Arts & Business).

Lots of people turned up to celebrate the event with vast amounts of tea and cake - we even wheeled the piano out again so that Dan could do an official fanfare (if that's possible on a piano??). And after a few words by the artist himself, Michael peeled back the plastic covering to reveal his new artwork - everyone smiled and clapped, and Michael's Mum even shed a few tears... all together... AHH!

This piece was produced in enamelled steel at the AJ Wells studios based in Newport on the Isle of Wight. A combination of spraying, screen printing and hand painting was used to create the work. The medium of vitreous enamel allows the artwork to be displayed permanently outside as it has an exceptional resistance to the elements... good job if this week's weather is anything to go by!

During his residency, Michael further explored the qualities of vitreous enamel to create his commission. This process allows the layers of colour to be built up, while retaining the smooth finish of the surface so desired in his former paintings. This too allowed experimentation into the relief of the surface, working in texture to enhance the feel. The finished piece which is a triptych, features a large scale seabird in Micheal's customary bold, graphic style.

We are really excited by this project, and are very keen to foster further partnerships with Island businesses that support artists and result in innovative new artworks.