Al Saralis- Paintings that rise above Brexit and remind us of Patriotism

Currently showing at Amanda Aldous Fine Art

At  Amanda Aldous Fine Art we are currently hosting a new series of work by the talented contemporary artist Al Saralis, which are a beautiful set of paintings of young individual figures draped in the Union Jack. Al explains “I’m not trying to make a political statement but the inspiration came from the awareness of a disgruntled nation.”

 

Images of the Union Jack for the last 200 years have generally stirred something deep and positive in men and women across the social spectrum. Now perhaps the flag is an even more potent symbol trying to hold the nation together and remind us we are bound by a common history which has had its high and low points, a common culture and a desire for the best for our country. “I see the series as being reflective of things that are happening around us, and the exploration of patriotism”

 

It feels like we are drowning in a never-ending sea of information about Brexit with all factions trying to bring about what they believe is the best result for Britain. Yet there is a danger that solidarity amongst the Brits that has always been so strong is being severely tested and we are being forced into two tribes, with divisions between young and old, North and South or within traditional party political attachments.

 

These timeless and haunting images are a world away from any tension or division. Instead they evoke a poignant calm that invites a personal connection and open interpretation. Al Saralis has always been inspired by the classical beauty of Renaissance painting and the figures in these modern works have an affinity with Botticelli’s Primavera and The Birth of Venus -two of the most popular yet controversial paintings in the world.

 

Amanda Aldous Fine Art specialises in contemporary and 20th Century painting, sculpture and ceramics. The gallery is situated in Hampshire between Basingstoke and Farnham, just a few minutes from Junction 5 of the M3.

 

 

 

 

 

 

January 31, 2019