'Out of the Dark, Into the Light' exhibition

Throughout August, Batley based Artist Gary Makin brings his distinctive work to Creative Arts Hub in Mirfield, taking over the gallery for a one-man show. Gary creates monochromatic images, which use a limited palette to stunning effect. Some of his paintings feature portraits, including well-known jazz musicians; in others he has created a series of photorealistic animal images. The exhibition starts on 30th July and runs to 29th August, and also features a more personal series of artwork which, until now, has not been exhibited publically as a complete set.

Leeds-born Gary is a self-taught artist who has lived in Batley for the past three years. Since moving to Batley he has worked full-time as an artist, concentrating on developing various strands of artwork including animal and musical themes. Gary’s background is in design, working as a pattern maker for many years before turning to art. He has held a keen interest in art from an early age, but only recently found the opportunity to return to it and satisfy his creative urges.

Since picking up the paintbrushes Gary has met with some success, exhibiting and selling work at several local venues including Huddersfield Train Station, Slaithwaite Emporium, The Packhorse Gallery, Revive (Heckmondwike) and Café Society in Huddersfield – with one piece being snapped up by renowned Holmfirth artist Ashley Jackson. Gary’s first studio space was at the Bates Mill complex, as part of Artists in Mind – but he has since taken up a private workspace, also located in Huddersfield.

Gary says of his artistic journey: “I started on my path as an artist painting mainly jazz and musicians, which was inspiring as it helped me to develop my monochrome technique and style. By using my technique I hope to create atmospheric images that have been captured by light. I try to give my work moods and feelings by incorporating tones and highlights and I always strive to give the onlooker ‘a captured moment in time’.”

For the first time Gary will exhibit a series of darker work – a strand of more personal, reflective work which focuses on the emotional journey of the artist. This series explores the difficult subject matter of child abuse, and is particularly challenging in nature. In respect of this series of work, the Hub have created a special exhibition space within one of their studios - to house the paintings and to ensure that it has the right emotional impact for visitors.

Gallery open Weds to Fri 10am to 5pm; Sat 10am to 3pm

For more information visit http://www.facebook.com/creativeartshubmirfield