Saturday, 1 January 2011

Art by Kerry Darlington

I'd like to share with you some photographs of work by one of my favourite artists, Kerry Darlington.

I originally encountered Kerry's art in a local gallery in Surrey, England.  We had just decorated our bedroom, and were looking for something that represented tranquility and spiritual restfulness.  I am a big fan of nature, and everything magical; Kerry's work immediately jumped out from the other paintings in the Gallery, and we just had to make the purchase.

It was only after we had acquired some of Kerry's work, that we discovered some of the inspiration behind much of her art.  Kerry, like me, had enjoyed the writing of Enid Blyton as a child, and was particularly captivated by "The Magic Faraway Tree" series.  The books describe an enchanted world centred around a magical tree where numerous characters live and play.  You will see much of this magic in Kerry's work;  much of her subject matter involves elf and pixie like characters, amazing colours, original media techniques and deep emotional meaning and attachment.  I have included a link at the end of this post if you are interested in learning more about Enid's books.

Our initial investment was from Kerry's very popular "Tree of Life" series of paintings.  We were lucky enough to catch one of her early originals from the Gallery.  Subsequently, we purchased a second "tree" for installation at Kingston MRI.  Feedback from the patients has been fantastic - Kerry Darlington's magical tree continues to provide a comfortable and tranquil environment in the reception of this private facility in Surrey, England.

Kerry has been nominated for numerous awards, most recently shortlisted as finalist for the Fine Art Trade Guild 'Best-Selling Published Artist 2010' Award.

Last year I was privileged to meet with Kerry and her husband Cris at their studio in Wales.  What can I say - what a lovely experience.  Kerry and Cris were so welcoming, and really took time to talk to me about their work.

For more information on Kerry's work you can visit her web site


Kerry's Blog


The shots below are a selection from my private collection, and must not be reproduced without permission.  I do hope you enjoy them.


Kerry Darlington and her masterpiece - Tree of Life.
This work measures 8ft by 4ft and took Kerry 3 months to complete.


Kerry Darlington in her studio

Kerry and I - February 2010.

Cris and Kerry Darlington





This shot shows the 3 dimensional nature of Kerry's style.  The work is layered and lacquered to achieve Kerry's original, and often imitated, style.

More information on Enid Blyton's Faraway Tree books can be found here


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