Brighton’s Arty: Alison Krog

Top of the glass

It’s the last weekend of Christmas Artists Open Houses – and we’d hate you to miss out on the masterful craftsmanship of our favourite glass artist, Stephanie Else. So make your way to Beaconsfield Studios at the bottom of Ditchling Rise where she’ll be showing a vibrant collection of glass artworks and jewellery – including some extra special snowflakes. Applying a variety of kiln-forming techniques, Stephanie works with a combination of transparent and opaque glass, adding metals, foils and lustres. She uses the surface texture, pattern and colour within the medium to create beautifully tactile pieces that exploit the natural jewel-like qualities the glass possesses. Imagine how stunning they will look on your walls, shimmering in the winter sun. (And did we mention there’ll be Chocadyllic chocolate creations there too?)

Another Beaconsfield Studio that’s well worth a visit is that of award-winning contemporary painter Caia Matheson. Caia is inspired by ‘wabi sabi’ – or the beauty of imperfection, and she loves to mix paint mediums and experiment with the effects. Her unique technique is very physical, painting with her hands and washing-up brushes onto canvases laid flat on the floor. She starts with a specific colour in mind, then introduces other colours as she builds up layers on the canvas. These are then scraped off and layered again, gradually exposing the subjects of the composition, which are buried in the dark and light spaces and come out and disappear as the light changes. A mesmerising and mystical experience for the viewer.

Out of town: The annual Christmas Mixed Exhibition at Zimmer Stewart Gallery, Arundel, is a visual treat with something to satisfy all tastes. Featuring works by Elaine Pamphilon, Piers Ottey, Tom Hammick, Garry Goodman, Chris Keenan and Arundel Cool! to name just a few.

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