There must be an Angel playing with my 'art'
One of the Uk’s best loved and most collectable artists, Alexander Millar, has created a new collection of artworks based on Angel of the North.
The four original oil paintings and signed, limited edition prints on paper and on canvas are being exhibited in the artist’s own three-storey art gallery on Newcastle’s Grey Street.
Describing what inspired him to create these artworks, Alexander Millar said
“I have a great affinity with The Angel of the North sculpture.
In 1990, the idea of the sculpture was being discussed just a few years after I had moved to the north east of England from an Ayrshire mining village in Scotland.
This piece of monumental art emerging on what was once colliery pit-head baths resonated with my own artistic interpretations of the changing, industrial landscapes of my youth.”
“At this stage, I was a struggling artist - supplementing my income by cleaning windows, but Angel of the North sculpture - its history, sense of place and the emotion that motivated the project stayed with me through these tough times. I think that’s a feeling that many of us that grew up in the mid-20th century can understand.”
“A few years later I painted my own tribute to The Angel of the North, and then created a sculpture - who looks over the shoppers in Gateshead’s Metro Centre - another site of industrial regeneration.”
“Instead of the sleek, minimal shape of the Anthony Gormley artwork, my 'gadgie' angel had his signature baggy, work suit and flat cap. Instead of arms (or wings) outstretched, he had his window cleaner's ladder across his shoulders.”
Alexander Millar has created four artworks that refer back to his own ‘gadgie’ Angel, removing the character from the industrial landscapes of the past and placing him in scenes that are more 21st century.
After the last couple of tough years for all of us, the new 'gadgie' Angel is looking towards colourful vistas that the artist thinks bring some pleasure, joy and hope for the future.
The new Angel collection will be exhibited from Saturday 23 April 2022 until the end of the year.
The ‘Angel’ Collection artwork ranges are from £645 for an unframed, signed, limited edition print on paper to £28,000 for an original painting.
ENDS