Working from a new studio

Recently I have taken that leap of faith and moved into a brand new space that’s a million miles (in size!) from my tiny space at home. In fairness, it was time to do it and I’ve been thinking if I don’t do it now when the opportunity rises, then when will I?

So here I am some weeks later, all moved in. Walls white-washed looking all gallery-like; book shelves and desk in one corner,(plus radiator!) and one wall used as an exhibiting space. And now excitingly this past weekend I opened up my new studio to the public as part of the Christmas market held collectively by all the my neighbouring artists, creatives and small businesses in this wonderful big building..

Originally an old Victorian warehouse in the beautiful Kent countryside, my new studio is one of many other studios and spaces with other creatives and makers; again, a million miles from the solitude of painting at home! The benefits of being in this new space is the chance to make new connections and then when hunkering down to painting, I can just slide my door and enjoy that solitude again - just me, my ideas and the oils.

Now as newly relocated too, I am happy to open up my studio and receive visits from anyone interested in purchasing my work. Just give me a call, or email, to arrange an appointment.

This is me, my contact details and a snapshot of the studios - I’m the one behind the blue door!.

Buckhurst Works, Bell’s Yew Green, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 9BJ

Catch up again with you soon!

New works

Starting a new body of works is always slightly daunting and its always a worry that those initial days/weeks invested in exploration and experimentation are worth it! But, this is the nature of the beast and is the only way to keep your practice travelling foward.

So, I’m not sure yet what the overall body of work will be called but each painting will have a strong narrative running through,with recognisable motifs; poignant, thoughtful and quiet reflections on daily life. Colour, line and form will give the composition an abstract flavour.

With this project I am letting go of anything vaguely representative in the initial sketches, then bring it back to a semblance of something that is. But, to abstract is the key.

The first painting in the series below is titled ‘The Reader’ and is inspired by my love of books, tea and plants. Not necessarily a self-portrait because most of us also love those aspects of life. But you could say ‘The Reader’ is inspired by the onset of Autumn and all things relatable to hygge; that appreciation of home and its comforts when the dark nights set in; a representation of simple things that bring us joy.

Now complete, the final touches to the painting are the glazing and ‘fixing’ in of the graphite.

If interested in following my progress, just tap the instagram icon below.

And of course if any works are of interest, just email me and I will respond the same day.

Tan x

Ilminster Open Exhibition 2021

I’m really chuffed to bits to have received a ‘Highly Commended’ certificate for my Girl in a Turban at the Prizing giving ceremony at Ilminster Arts on Wed 21st July evening. It really makes all the hard work worth it!

As a prize winner I have been given the opportunity to exhibit alongside the other winners at the Arts’ Centre in early 2022. Exciting and humbling!

The Summer Open exhibition runs until 13th August.

Keep an eye on instagram for more news and works in progress.

Thanks for checking in.

‘Girl in a Turban’  submission                                                                        copyright Tan Kingston

‘Girl in a Turban’ submission copyright Tan Kingston

Me with my ‘highly commended’ entry, and Girl in a Kimono Dressing Gown (right)

Me with my ‘highly commended’ entry, and Girl in a Kimono Dressing Gown (right)

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Artists Open Houses, Brighton & Hove 2021

http://janepalmerbrighton.co.uk/open-house/

My friend and fellow artist, Jane Palmer is back with Jane Palmer & Friends, for another Open House in Fiveways, Brighton, this May & June. Click on the link above to find out more; the venue, the dates and of course the talented and colourful line of artists showing at Jane’s. Coupled with the easing of lockdown restrictions, how wonderful the prospect of five weekends of the AOH Arts Festival. It’s just the tonic!

To discover pre-festival preparations by each artist, you can follow us on Instagram @janepalmerandfriends https://www.instagram.com/janepalmerandfriends/

Fine art greetings cards now available

From three of my 2020 paintings, I now have greetings cards.

I always think it is a nice option to possess a greetings card, and definitely receive one from an original painting. Fine art greetings cards can also be placed into a nice little frame. Certainly its a great idea as a cheap alternative.

I am offering free delivery to UK. Overseas postage applies. Each card is £3.

Each card is blank for your own message.

Tabby Gorgeousness 1.jpg

Tabby Gorgeousness

7 x 5” on 300gsm card Copyright Tan Kingston

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Swing with a view

7 x 5” on 300 gsm card Copyright: Tan Kingston

Love & Joy 2.jpg

Love & Joy

7 x 5” on 300 gsm card. Copyright Tan Kingston

Lastly, I shall be adding to my collection of greetings cards as I create more paintings. I mention this now as I am making preparations for the Artists Open Houses this Summer… Yes, you heard it here. Fingers (and everything crossed!!) that the creative community in Brighton, Hove & surrounding area will at long last be coming together this June to celebrate all things arty and crafty.

Summer plein air painting.  Copyright Tan Kingston

Summer plein air painting. Copyright Tan Kingston