Barbara Vidion and Liz Upchurch will be returning to The Malthouse Gallery this March with The Eye of The Artist, their second joint exhibition. 

Barbara Vidion

I started painting relatively recently in 2018 and I work mostly with acrylic paints and mixed media. Experimenting with various techniques and mediums is a process of creative exploration with many discoveries and delights along the way. I moved to Sidmouth from the Waveney Valley in Suffolk – a very different landscape to that of East Devon! I love both counties and am inspired by the moods and the ever changing landscapes and seascapes they offer. Trying to capture a sense of that energy in the moods of the sea and sky plus the ever changing effect of weather on the landscapes is tremendous challenge.

I’m very fortunate to live where I do, with the Jurassic coast a short walk away. I spend many hours walking along the dramatic coastal paths with my dog, these amazing seascapes inspire my paintings as do the inland landscapes of the Pebblebed Heaths at Woodbury and further afield, Dartmoor.

Liz Upchurch

Originally from the North of England, I relocated to Devon some years ago. A very beautiful and diverse part of the country. I have always loved ‘arty’ things. Curious about different techniques and styles of paintings. I first started to experiment with watercolours and realised very soon I needed guidance. In 2018 I decided to join an art group where Barbara and I met and became painting friends.

My subjects are varied, as is the different mediums I use. Watercolours, acrylic and acrylic ink which I use in conjunction with Indian ink, using a reed instead of a paintbrush. Painting is so absorbing and a great way to relax.

The exhibition runs from Friday 28 March until Thursday 3 April and is open daily from 10:30am until 4pm. Entry is free of charge.