Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre will display an exhibition of new paintings by renowned artist David Preston titled Beauty for Beauty's Sake from 3 December to 30 January 2022.
The paintings were created throughout 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the associated lockdown and the implications for an artist who works largely en plein air (in the open air).
Capturing thoughtfully arranged still lifes, views from his garden and scenes of quiet village life, Preston emphasises what he calls a 'beauty-first' approach to painting.
"Beautiful used to be the only word but now it's never good enough. Beauty doesn't need to have a cherry on top," Preston said.
"In this neo-Post Modern age, my hope is that beauty may once again be fashionable."
Gallery Director Susi Muddiman OAM said: "David Preston is one of the region's most celebrated artists whose practice spans the last 40 years. I believe this exhibition will be extraordinarily popular with locals and visitors alike."
Preston is a self-described gypsy whose art practice reflects the interiors and landscapes of places he has travelled to.
Preston first visited the northern NSW region as a child, spending summer holidays with his family at Coolangatta and Tweed Heads. In the early 1990s he returned to the area, living at Rosebank and The Channon and is now based in the village of Uki.
Public Programs
Official Opening
Friday 10 December 2021 | 5.30–8pm (NSW time) | $20
All are invited to join us for the opening celebrations of Beauty for Beauty's Sake. Enjoy a complimentary drink and light refreshments upon arrival.
Bookings essential: decemberopenings.eventbrite.com.au
In Conversation hosted by the Friends of the Gallery
Tuesday 7 December 2021 | 10.30–12pm (NSW time) | $10
Join David Preston in conversation with exhibition curator Sarah Wallace to gain insights into the artist's practice and the exhibition Beauty for Beauty's Sake. Morning tea provided.
Bookings essential: trybooking.com/BVCVT
