Celebrating 2024: A Year of Creativity & Milestones

At its heart was the flagship piece, Tangled Roots, a breathtaking portrait blending intricate tree branches with Kerry's soft portrait. Equally captivating were works like The Dryad's Crown, a regal homage to nature’s spirits, and originals such as The Wild Swans, Golden Dawn, and The Night Faeries. Each piece echoed a sense of wonder, transporting viewers to realms where mythical creatures and vibrant landscapes converged.

Our galleries were transformed into a dreamscape by Kerry's art, with soft lighting casting gentle glows on the intricate layers of resin and paint. It was truly joyous to have Kerry in our galleries again, interacting with her collectors, both old and new, sharing insights into her world.

As the year unfolded, Darlington returned with Return to Neverland, an exhibition that continued her journey through folklore and imagination. This time, she revisited cherished tales, adding her unique twist.

Among the standout pieces was Second Star to the Right, and Straight On ‘Till Morning, a mesmerizing reimagining of her earlier Peter Pan artwork, Come Away, Come Away. Darlington’s new works, including Moongazing in the Willows—a dreamy nod to The Wind in the Willows—and Hundred Acre Wood, inspired by Winnie the Pooh, evoked both nostalgia and wonder.

This summer, Wyecliffe Galleries proudly welcomed Zalini, an innovative British artist whose revolutionary 3D ‘injection’ technique has captivated the art world. Over six years, Zalini honed this method, using a syringe dispenser to paint fine, textured lines that bring his whimsical animal portraits to life.

At the heart of Zalini’s collection are playful depictions of animals in human attire, rendered in bright, vibrant colors against deep black backgrounds. Works like Purrfectand DJ Knitty G have delighted collectors with their charm and intricacy. Each piece is framed in sleek black woodgrain, making them a striking addition to any space.

In autumn, Mark Illuminati brought his electrifying neon artworks to Wyecliffe, drawing inspiration from his punk-rock roots and countercultural heritage. From his studio in Shepherd’s Bush, Illuminati crafts bespoke neon pieces that blend vintage materials with modern flair. His works pay homage to the punk movement while incorporating classical techniques like gold-leafing and hand-framing.

Illuminati’s standout pieces include portraits of icons and his celebrated depiction of Queen Elizabeth II, which earned royal recognition for its witty and audacious spirit. The fusion of rebellion and refinement in his art resonated deeply with collectors, who admired the way his works transformed spaces with their radiant, anarchic energy.

Highlights included seeing her flagship piece, Second Star to the Right, and Straight On ‘Till Morning, evolve under her brush—a stunning reimagining of her earlier Peter Pan piece. We also witnessed the magic behind Moongazing in the Willows and Hundred Acre Wood, with Kerry expertly weaving nostalgia and innovation into each work.

But the visit wasn’t just about Kerry’s artistry. We had the privilege of observing her team in action—crafting bespoke frames, applying her signature resin finishes, and perfecting every detail of her unique editions. This collaborative effort underscored the dedication and craftsmanship that goes into every piece.

The day after, we found ourselves in the cozy yet vibrant home studio of David Renshaw, whose artistry has long enchanted collectors. David welcomed us with open arms, embodying the same warmth and charm that radiates from his paintings.

During the visit, David was hard at work on London Lights, the centerpiece of his November collection. It was fascinating to watch as he skillfully captured the glowing energy of the cityscape, layering light and shadow to create the stunning vibrancy his work is known for.

The visit also featured an exclusive Q&A session, where David shared insights into his creative process, the inspirations behind his work, and what makes his pieces resonate so deeply with collectors. His candid reflections provided a unique glimpse into the heart of his artistry.

We also recorded a podcast interview during this visit, diving deeper into his creative philosophy and his thoughts on the year’s projects. David’s easygoing nature and willingness to share made the experience a joy for our team and a treasure trove of content for our collectors. As we left his studio, we couldn’t help but feel grateful for the connection we’d strengthened with David—not just as an artist but as a friend of the gallery. We look forward to visiting him again soon and sharing more of his inspiring journey with our collectors.

One of the exhibition’s standout qualities was its ability to make colour the star of the show. Becky’s layering of textures, colours and painting techniques created a depth and luminosity that left us all mesmerised. Her work didn’t just invite you to look; it demanded that you feel—joy, hope, and wonder.

The Life in Colour exhibition wasn’t just a visual treat; it was a communal experience. The event brought together art lovers, collectors, and newcomers alike, all united in their admiration for Becky’s work, connecting with the interactive elements dotted around the gallery spaces, and dancing to the live saxaphone music. Whether it was the boldness of her brushstrokes or the warmth radiating from the pieces and the artist herself, this exhibition reminded everyone of the transformative power of art.

Innovation took center stage in October with the premiere of Lhouette’s Hyper Pop short film. This multimedia project combined the visual and cinematic arts, pushing the boundaries of creativity and redefining how art can be experienced.

The film provided an immersive journey into Lhouette’s world, blending his signature pop culture-inspired aesthetic with storytelling elements that captivated audiences. The premiere was met with enthusiasm, further cementing Lhouette’s reputation as a trailblazer in the contemporary art scene.

This summer, Lhouette captivated collectors with his electrifying collection, Thresholds of a Dream. Melding his distinctive urban-pop aesthetic with dreamlike surrealism, the series invited viewers into a realm where bold, contemporary visuals intersected with deeper, reflective themes. Known for his sharp contrasts—bright neon hues against muted backgrounds, gritty textures juxtaposed with polished finishes—Lhouette’s work sparked dialogue and emotion in equal measure.

These artworks didn’t just hang on walls; they became immersive experiences, each telling a story that resonated with audiences across generations. The buzz surrounding the collection cemented Thresholds of a Dream as a standout moment in Wyecliffe’s summer offerings, showcasing Lhouette’s ability to push boundaries while staying true to his artistic roots.

In November, David Renshaw illuminated the year with the launch of London Lights, Love Ignites. This original oil painting, accompanied by a limited edition release of the same name, marked a rare shift in focus for the artist, known for his evocative countryside and coastal scenes. Capturing the magic and romance of London at night, the artwork showcased Renshaw’s versatility and deep storytelling ability.

The scene is quintessentially London, yet uniquely Renshaw: fireworks cascade above the iconic Big Ben, bathing the scene in a kaleidoscope of colours. An iconic red telephone box and his signature red heart stand bold in the foreground, framing Ted & Doris in their intimate embrace. It’s a celebration of love amidst the bustle of city life, encapsulated in Renshaw’s signature style of warmth and nostalgia.

The debut of London Lights, Love Ignites was a momentous occasion, underscoring Renshaw’s ability to infuse metropolitan settings with the same emotional depth and connection found in his rural compositions. The artwork resonated deeply with collectors, offering not just a visual feast but also an evocative narrative—a perfect ode to love in one of the world’s most iconic cities. This release stands as a testament to Renshaw’s evolving portfolio and his ability to surprise and delight his audience.