The Royal Institute of Oil Painters

ROI Masterclass Date

2012-02-20T04:20:00.000-08:00

Ever wanted to see top oil painting professional sin action and learn some of their secrets? Well now is your chance.

A new ROI masterclass event is to be held on Sunday September 30th 2012.
The location will be the same as the last hugely successful event - Picturecraft Gallery in Holt, North Norfolk.

Demonstrating on the day will be the ever popular David Curtis ROI, RSMA and Roger Dellar ROI. RI, VPPS

David is the author of several books on painting and has appeared in many DVDs for APV Films

Roger is a hugely in demand teacher and demonstrator with a vibrant, dynamic painting style.

Tickets for the event are on a strictly first come first served basis and there is a discount for Friends Of The ROI. To book your place contact Picturecraft Gallery on 01263 711040 or email them on info@picturecraftgallery.com

There will also be an exhibition of selected ROI members work to view in the gallery on the day.

Here are some pictures from last year's event at the same location.

ROI Associate Member Featured in Best of British Magazine Feature

2012-02-10T05:39:00.000-08:00

AROI Chris Bennett is featured on the cover of the March edition of Artist And Illustrators Magazine in their special edition on the best of British art.

There's a four page feature on Chris and his work inside the magazine. Well worth buying!

Movers and Shakers At The ROI

2012-01-26T05:54:00.000-08:00

Following the recent successful annual exhibition there have been some promotions in the ROI membership.

Tim Benson, Richard Price and Brian Ryder have been elected full members.

David Pilgrim has been made an Associate Member.

New Provisional Members are Lachlan Goudie and Natalya Avdeeva

Many congratulations to them all.

Brian Ryder Becomes Full Member of the ROI

2012-01-12T11:11:00.000-08:00

Congratulation to Brian Ryder who has just been elected to full membership of the Royal Institute of Oil Painters in time for the launch of his latest DVD - Winter Landscapes In Oil - released today.

You can order Brian's new DVD here: Winter Landscapes In Oil Here's a trailer.

Prizewinners At This Year's ROI Annual Exhibition

2011-12-17T08:41:00.000-08:00

Former Cabinet Minister, now TV presenter, the Rt Hon Michael Portillo was there to present the prizes at this year's exhibition. Here are some of them.

Winsor & Newton Oil Painters Awards (under 35)

1st Prize - Natalia Avdeeva 'self portrait

2nd Prize - Lachlan Goudi 'Performance'

3rd Prize - Fedor Gridnev ' Lena'

Phyllis Roberts Award - Irena Chmura 'Joanna'

The Le Clerc Fowle Medal - Richard Combes and the Alan Gourley Memorial Prize -

Richard Combes 'Turkish Taylor'. Also to the same artist the L. Cornelissen & Son Award -

for 'Finishing Touches, Franklin St collected on Richard's behalf by his agent.

Frank Herring Easel Award - Dennis Gaskin 'Fast Food'

Menena Joy Schwabe Memorial Award - Roger R Jones 'Shrimp Fisherman, Morecambe Bay

Dartington Crystal Chalice - David Curtis

The DAS Award - Roger Dellar ' London Lights'

And as a "thank you" to Michael, ROI member Lucy McKie presented him with one of her beautiful still life pictures.

Many congratulations to all the prize winners and to everyone who made this year's annual exhibition the best in years.

Art Event Evening Busiest Ever

2011-12-17T05:30:00.000-08:00

The Royal Institute of Oil Painters Art Event evening was a wonderful
success this week. The fabulous and very patient sitters were President
Peter Wileman, his daughter Olivia, and the daughter of Vice President Ian
Cryer. The ROI members demonstrating included Ian Cryer, Roger Dellar, Luis
Morris, June Mendoza, Ronald Morgan, Dennis Syrett, Bill Dean and Lucy
McKie. Many non-members also painted alongside and kept their strength up
with plenty of wine and festive mince pies! Everyone had a thoroughly
enjoyable evening and it was a fascinating chance to see so many different
styles and approaches to painting.

Here are some pictures from the evening taken by Pete Bond

ROI Annual Exhibtion Gets of to a Sparkling Start

2011-12-07T11:48:00.000-08:00

The private view at the Mall Galleries was a full house with invited guests coming from far and wide to see what many people are saying is the best ROI exhibition in years. It was opened by the former Cabinet Minister The Rt Hon Michael Portillo who is a Patron of the ROI and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Federation of British Artists which administers the Mall Galleries.

It's now open to the public until Sunday December 18. Here are some pictures from the opening.

David Curtis ROI chats to friends

Brian Ryder AROI and his posse

Tim Benson AROI and his massive head

Current ROI President Peter Wileman and past President Dennis Syrett

Provisional ROI member Adebanji Alade shares his sketchbook

ROI Vice President Ian Cryer

ROI President Peter Wileman, his wife Jo and guest

Adebanji Alade and his picture which was the second one to sell on the day.

Adebani with the lucky buyer of his painting

The red dot is applied. Sold!

Roger Dellor ROI and his prize-winning work

The wonderful June Mendoza ROI and her portrait of Ken Howard RA painting her portrait. Look in the background and you can see June painting Ken, painting June......

Lewis McNaught from the Mall Galleries chats to Michael Portillo

Perennial favourite Trevor Chamberlain ROI with some of his work

Peter Wileman in full flow

More pictures tomorrow including the award winners

Annual Exhibition Promises Something For Everyone

2011-12-04T08:25:00.000-08:00

The year's annual ROI exhibition at London's Mall Galleries opens to the public on Weds December 7 and runs until Sunday 18th December. The Mall Galleries are easy to get to and are just a short walk from Trafalgar Square. ROI President Peter Wileman commented: "This year we have something for everyone from landscapes to portraits. It's a fantastic collection of work by our members and those non-members who got through our rigorous selection process. This exhibition makes the ideal, colourful antidote to all the doom and gloom about at the moment and I hope more people than ever will find time to come along and see the hundreds of painting on display."

Here is a small selection of the pictures on display this year. Double click on the images to enlarge them.

Read Tim Benson On The Making of An Oil Portrait

2011-11-29T09:02:00.000-08:00

Tim Benson, AROI has a splendid article in the current ediution of The Artist Magazine December edition on the making of an oil portrait in which he shares his thoughts on modern portraiture and his dynamic big brush technique.

You can read more about this on The Artrist Magazine web site: The Artist Magazine

Lucy McKie In The December Edition Of Artists And Illustrators Magazine

2011-11-21T02:37:00.000-08:00

Lucy McKie ROI is featured in the Christmas edition of the Artist and Illustrator magazine - out now. The article includes Lucy's techniques, influences and approach to her paintings. She also discusses details on her choice of colour, brushes and preferred canvas. It's a great read so why not go out and but a copy!

Find out more about Lucy and her work on her excellent web site: http://www.portraitpainteruk.com/

Tim Benson Taking Part In Open Studio Event

2011-11-05T08:54:00.000-07:00

Tim Benson AROI will be showing His work as part of the 'Open Studios' weekend at The Chocolate Factory in Wood Green, North London from 11/11/2011-13/11/2011. Please click on the link for details. http://www.collage-arts.org/open-studios/ If you would like to find out more about his work please visit his website at http://timbenson.co.uk/

Tim says: "Come along and see some paintings"

Mel, oil on canvas 40" x 40".

Selection Day For ROI Annual Exhibition 2011

2011-11-02T04:36:00.000-07:00

The selection day for the annual ROI Exhibition at London's Mall Galleries was held on Monday Oct 31 and here Vice President Ian Cryer gives this fascinating insight into the selection process:

Work for our annual Exhibition was selected on Monday 31^st October and just under 700 non member works were considered for the show which opens at the Mall Galleries on 7^th December . Well done to those artists that were successful as competition for the available wall space was tight. Some excellent work was presented by non members and young artists taking part in the Windsor and Newton Awards.

It has to be said that some poorly presented work was also submitted and i would urge aspiring artists to think carefully as to how they frame their work and how their work hangs together as a group and the message this sends to us on selection. Our selection committee represents literally hundreds of years of painting experience from some of this country’s finest oil painters and we take this aspect of our duties very seriously and we do give serious consideration to the work offered.

We have all suffered at the hands of selection committees and it’s easy to take rejection personally but i would always advise artists to take an honest look at their work and consider if they really feel they sent their best work and whether it was presented as sympathetically as it could have been.

Selection at the ROI is a democratic process and good work can just fall short of the required number of votes. In which case a D is chalked on the reverse which means it is looked at again at the end of selection. A “D or Doubtful” painting may latter be accepted or again fail to muster enough votes. At this point the available wall space also becomes a factor in deciding how many paintings we can accept.

ROI Selection Committee with Vice Pesident Ian Cryer front row right.

I know from my own experience that from the outside selection can seem such a mystery and i hope these comments are of value to non members wishing to exhibit successfully at the ROI.

Ian Cryer VPROI

The ROI Annual Exhibition at The Mall Galleries, London runs from 7-18 December

New One Man Exhibition For ROI President Peter Wileman

2011-11-01T10:07:00.000-07:00

Peter's latest exhibiton is at the splendid Walker Galleries in Harrogate Yorkshire and runs from November 5 -11. As it opens on Guy Fawkes night I'm sure we are in for some fireworks!

Here are some of Peter's pictures from the exhibition.

Peter's new book is selling fast and availble at only £10.69 on Amazon. Click on this link.

Painting Light in Oil by Peter Wileman an Malcolm Allsop

Tim Benson At The Affordable Art Fair, Hampstead, London

2011-10-26T02:24:00.000-07:00

Tim Benson AROI will be exhibiting some recent pictures at London's Affordable Art Fair in Hampstead which begins on Thursday October 27 and runs to October 30

Here are some of his pictures which are at very "affordable" prices.

Tim has a new video on his web site showing him handing over a comissioned portrait.

And here's Tim in his recently released teaching DVD - Dynamic Oil Portraits.

New Brian Ryder One Man Exhibition

2011-10-22T11:47:00.000-07:00

Fans of Norfolk based painter Brian RyderAROI have a splendid opportunity to view his latest work at his one many show which has just opened at the Picturecraft Gallery in Holt North Norfolk. It runs until Weds 26 October. More than 50 pieces are on display.

Here's Brian with Picturecraft Gallery Owner Adrian Hill at the private view on Friday Oct 21

And here are some pictures from that private view event. Click on the picture to view them full size.

Last Chance to Book Up For Brian Ryder's Oil Landscape Masterclass

2011-10-21T03:20:00.000-07:00

Just a few days left to book for the event on Sunday October 30 at the Picturecraft Gallery in Holt, North Norfolk. Brian will be painting two full demonstrations - one either side of lunch which is included in the ticket price of £55. Ticket also includes tea and coffee and the next door art materials shop is beings specially opened for the day and offering discounts to those attending.

For those who have not met Brian before he is both an inspiring teacher and a very funny man. There will be ample opportunities to ask him questions during the event.

To book your place contact Picturecraft Gallery on 01263 711040

Latest Pictures From Darkest Devon

2011-10-14T07:40:00.000-07:00

ROI President Peter Wileman has kindly sent us some of his latest pictures from his recent painting trip to Devon. Some cracking work Peter! His next one man show is to be in Harrogate in Yorkshire next month. Details to follow shortly.

And here's a picture of Peter's beloved Chevrolet he drove to Devon in. You can see he is unloading some of his sketches he did down there. He will need to sell a few of those to pay for his petrol as he tells me the car only does 10 miles to the gallon. Now that's what I call a carbon footprint!

ROI President Peter Wileman's Devon Trip

2011-09-13T03:00:00.000-07:00

Peter has just returned from South Devon where he spent time sketching and gathering materials for a new series of paintings.

Peter writes: "A great week in Devon with superb superb weather was

kicked off with a morning spent sketching and exploring this fantastic

neck of the woods, followed by some oil sketches worked on during the

course of the week.

Photos below show the finished work achieved back in the studio.Lots more to follow."

Peter's new book Painting Light in Oil is selling fast and is avialble on Amazon for just £11.39

Details here: Painting Light In Oil

Peter's two teaching DVDs made by Town House Films are available here: Peter Wileman DVDs

New Book From ROI President Peter Wileman Out Now

2011-08-22T11:47:00.000-07:00

Peter Wileman new book, closely linked to the theme of his DVD Painting Light In Oil has just been published by Batsford Books.

In it Peter revleals the secrets of his paintng style and shows how he tackles both studio painting and plein air work. There is chapter on materials and colours as well as tackling subjects like painting the changing seasons and exploring light. The book contains more than a hundred stunning paintings by Peter and is currently a snip on Amazon for £11.89 - that's more than £7 off the list price. Order here: Painting Light in Oil

Here are some images from the book.

Join Brian Ryder AROI For An Oil Landscape Masterclass

2011-08-19T03:01:00.000-07:00

Fans of Norfolk based landcsape painter Brian Ryder will have the chance to join him for a day's masterclass on Sunday October 30.

The event is also being filmed by Town House Films for release as a DVD in time for Christmas. Brian will paint two full demonstrations on the day and those taking part will have the opportunity to ask questions and maybe even feature on the DVD - so global stardom beckons!

Here are some recent paintings from Brian.

The event is being staged at the splendid PIcturecraft Gallery in the picturesque Georgian market town of Holt just four miles from the Norfolk Norfolk coast. Such painting hotspots as Blakeney Harbour and Cley Next the Sea with its much painted windmill are less than a 10 minute drive away so who not make a weekend of it?

Additionally the next door art materials shop is being opend up specially and those attending will be offered a special discount.

Tickets cost £55 for the day include a picnic lunch with wine or fruit juice and tea and coffee.

Numbers are strictly limited so book early to avoid dissapointment. You can reserve a place by phone by calling the Picturecraft Gallery on 01263 711040 or email them for more details: info@picturecraftgallery.com

More Portraits From Tim Benson AROI

2011-07-29T03:38:00.000-07:00

Tim's latest DVD realease Dynamic Oil Portraits has genereted a lot of interest in the featured Artist Tim Benson AROI. In response to many request to see more of his work here are some examples of his recent portrait work.

NEW DVD FROM TIM BENSON AROI

2011-07-18T06:05:00.000-07:00

Recently elected AROI Tim Benson has a new DVD out which demonstrates his exciting style of portraiture. Called Dynamic Oil Portraits it's available from the producers Town House Films or from Amazon

Here's a sneak preview.

Here are some pictures of the shoot

New One Man Show And Book From ROI President Peter Wileman

2011-06-30T05:31:00.000-07:00

Peter has a new one man show underway at the Bohemia Gallery in York. It runs until July 9.

Peter also has a new book out in August Painting Light In Oils from Anova Books. You can pre-order the book now at a discount price on Amazon: Painting Light in Oils

Here are some pictures from Peter's exhibition.

Here's Peter in action on his most recent DVD from Town House Films

A Painter's Tale

2011-06-15T04:04:00.000-07:00

AROI Brian Ryder has been teaching people to paint for quite a few years. His courses, run both in the UK and abroad are always in demand.

If you have never been on a painting holiday and wondered what went on, Brian has contributed the following diary from his most recent foray to Venice with a bunch of eager painters. The words and pictures are from Brian himself.

Daubing in Dorsoduro by Brian Ryder

The weeks forecast was not too good, as twelve eager and non too eager attendees, having heard of my reputation on tuition, waited at Gatwick for our flight and a week of painting in Venice.

At least I knew quite a few of the group, but two ladies from Singapore threw me somewhat. One called Florence spoke fair English but the other with an unpronouncable name did not. I decided to refer to her as" Rome". Arrived late afternoon to sunshine and except for one rainy day, there it stayed all week. The Italians said "the weather forecast, it will be good, itza no problemo". The first day day after our arrival we stopped at the Giardini area for the morning to get their eye in and so I could assess the level of their work. Off to Ca Rezzonica and St Barnaba for the afternoon for a demo, cappuchinos and perspective tuition. All great so far.

Day 2. I was up early drawing from the cafe opposite the hotel before going for breakfast. Today we are off to Sant Angelo for the morning tuition and then to Santo Stephano after lunch. Most of the group working in pen and wash which is my preferred medium, if I have not the time to paint in oils. We now started with colour, having become more acclimatised to the surroundings and by mid afternoon I led my group past another art group onto The Accademia Bridge overlooking "the view" of the Grand Canal. "Ok find a space along the bridge and you have twenty minutes to draw "the view"....no time for detail....just go for it! I have done this before with students and the results are interesting to see what is actually achievable, no time for detail ... once the "you must be joking" reaction is forgotten.

I promised to do the same later after they had returned to the Hotel as I wanted an hour or two drawing /painting on my own before the evening meal. After a drawing of the Gondola repair yard I went back to the Accademia for my "twenty minutes". After ten minutes drawing a man nudged me... "Youre Brian Ryder arent You" I tried to pass myself off as Hazel Soan ...but that didnt work. " Iv'e got your DVDs". He then proceeded to talk about what he had been doing in Venice and his art career. I stopped the clock.... "I am just an amateur he said but I know or have been with many lesser known artists like Peter Wileman, Ken Howard, Trevor Chamberlain David Curtis etc, etc". I explained what I was doing with my group and he eventually wandered off enabling me to finish my drawing before meeting up for dinner.

Day 3. Up early again drawing well before 7am. Off to the Gondola repair yard for the morning tuition and a demo of the old mill on the Giudecca. After lunch went along the Zattere stopping for a drawing and painting finishing at The Dogana "Custom House" before the journey back to base.

Day 4. My Half day for tuition. We started on the Lido for morning session giving the group time for shopping or painting on their own before meeting up in the evening at San Marco. I took the opportunity to return to The Dogana to do my view from" Harrys bar to Doges Palace", a 300 metre strech of the San Marco waterfront. It was warm and sunny so stopping off for a coffee having met some of the group I had a quick g and t before metting two more of the group who dragged me off for another g and t before meeting at the restaurant for our evening meal. One of our most sedate ladies , I think it may have been the drinks earlier, much to the astonishment of the group, threw her dry bread roll over her shoulder into the hundreds walking down the narrow street behind her. This was returned some 10 minutes later..."Is this yours?. A choppy waterbus journey back late in the evening....weather on the change ?

Day 5. Today the rain came. Went to Pescheria "Fish Market". Being a Sunday we could get undercover as there were no stalls erected. I decided, after initial tuition to do a quick pen and wash with non waterproof ink to try to get some effect onto the sketch. A passerby commented how "nice" one of the groups work was, looked at me with a "never mind" look as I was just proceeding to hold my work out in the rain to get some effect! We adjourned for coffee and crit in the rear of a cafe before finishing the morning and a pizza in the nearest cafe. On to San Marco for afternoon....still raining so group split up and I "sketched" with ideas for an oil or two back home of the large crowd still waiting to get into San Marco Basilica.

Day 6. Last full painting day and off to Camo Nuovo and S. Miracoli in the morning, a favourite spot of mine for last round of tuition, and to Santi Giovanni e Paolo after lunch before wandering back through Venice to San Marco and Waterbus. I am always surprised how much work people actually do as I believe it should not all be too serious and time out is a must in Venice. Observation, not always with painting , to pull in the atmoshere of the place is essential if you want to work on the drawings and paintings with an oil or two back at home. Memories of a good time and getting the feel and atmosphere of the location as well as photographic back ups is essential.

Day 7. The water taxi to the airport was not till mid afternoon so many of us, not a tuition day, either went shopping or back into Venice for last minute drawings and photos. I ended up at Giardini for photos of the residential area....with washing... and walked all the way back to San Marco taking photos I wanted, perhaps using these on some oils in the future. Then its home arriving before midnight.

Another great trip. I managed to get up early every morning to draw something as I dont have much time otherwise. Its probably nearing ten visits I have now had to Venice. I never tire of the place, but the beauty is that although many of the locations, if not all, have been painted many times by far better artists than I will ever be, the magic is still there. If you ever want to paint at one place in your life.....Venice it has to be. Don’t worry it’s been done before...it will be done many times again....but you have been and painted it !

Post note. Unlike previous trips abroad with me all the group got home safely.....without injuries !.... and thanks to everyone in the group in making it a week to remember.

Brian Ryder

A very entertainting piece from Brian - thanks Brian - who I can vouch for as a brilliant teacher. Find out more about Brian on his excellent web site: http://www.brianryder.org/

New London Exhibition for Adebanji Alade

2011-05-28T11:05:00.000-07:00

London based provisional ROI member Adebanji Alade, featured in a recent Town House Films DVD , Coastal Adventures In Acrylic, is exhibiting a number of works at the Enid Lawson Gallery in London as part of a four man exhibition which runs from June 8-22. The exhibition is entitled Pictures of London and also features Chris Daynes, Karl Terry and Michael Richardson.

Here are some of his pictures.

Adebanji is the mnost determined of plein air painter out in all weathers. Here he is in action in his DVD.

ROI Exhibition At Amersham

2011-05-22T08:33:00.000-07:00

If you are in or near Buckinghamshire in the next three weeks do drop in to the Hawker Gallery in Amersham which is holding an exhibition of work by invited members of the ROI. Exhibition runs from May 21 ro June 11. Here's a picture taken on opening day, followed by some of the paintings on display.

Introducing New Associate Member of the ROI Chris Bennet

2011-05-20T03:28:00.000-07:00

The ROI Blog would like to welcome Chris and congratulate him on his election to AROI

A bit of background

Chris Bennett was born in London in 1957 and studied at the Slade School of Fine Art in the early ‘80s under Euan Euglow, Geoffrey Camp and Philip Sutton. He has exhibited regularly at the Royal Academy and at the Royal Institute of Oil Painters at the Mall Galleries, London.

In 2004 Chris signed a publishing contract with DeMontfort Fine Art who license selected works as open and limited editions in the UK, Japan and the USA.

His paintings are exhibited and sold in prestigious galleries around the UK. A notable commission is a portrait of Sir William Hawthorne, now in the collection of Churchill College, Cambridge, who, with Sir Frank Whittle, designed the first jet engine.

Here's a very arty picture of Chris's studio

And here's a lovely painting by Chris entitled All on a Summer's Day. It's followed by some thoughtful comments from Chris about the painting.

"An idea popped into my head regarding tarts that have fallen onto the floor. The tarts were like draughts or game pieces on a chess board. This suggested a game being played whilst also involving an event in the real world.

This encouraged the idea of the Queen of Tarts and a more complex image started to form in my mind. Perhaps an indiscretion has taken place? She seems to crawl or stalk the floor as if recovering from a mishap yet also redolent of a small child. The electric ribbons in her hair speak of suddenness. She is suggestive of an 18^th century ‘tart’ and a Queen yet the limbs emerging from her dress and sleeve speak of the delicacy of a fuchsia. What game is being played here, a world where squares of green oppose circles of crimson? An adult world set in a nursery rhyme world. A nursery rhyme set in an adult world.

Thus the painting, ‘All on a Summer’s Day’. "

There are plenty of wonderful images of Chris's highly imaginative work on his excellent web site: www.chrisbennettartist.co.uk

The ROI Blog Welcomes New Member Bill Dean

2011-05-18T06:29:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Bill Dean on his election to full membership of the ROI.

Bill hails originally from North London and in a busy career has exhibited in, amongst many other exhibitions: RA Summer,Royal Society of Marine Artists, Royal Society of British Artists,
Royal Institute of Oil Painters, Discerning Eye and the New English Art Club. Bill is now on the Council of the ROI and is its official archivist. Here are just a few of his wonderful paintings.

See more of his work on his new web site: http://www.billdeanroi.com/

New Peter Wileman Exhibition

2011-05-18T06:03:00.000-07:00

ROI President Peter Wileman has a new one man exhibition in Shakespear Country which finsihd this coming weeking. The location is the new Hillier Gallery in Stratford on Avon and full details are on Peter's excellent web site: http://www.peterwilemanartist.co.uk/

David Curtis At Patchings Art Festival

2011-05-16T03:26:00.000-07:00

ROI member David Curtis will be in action at the upcoming Patchings Art Fetsival which runs from June 9 - 12. David will be judging The Artist Magazine paiting competition along with the magazine editor Dr Sally Bulgin. David will also be demonstrating at the event on the Saturday June 11.

Many of you will have seen David painting on his many DVDs or perhaps read one of his books but there is no substitute for seeing him paint in the flesh! Here's a picture of David, who was demonstrating at the recent ROI Masterclass in Holt, Norfolk, chatting with fellow ROI stalwart Trevor Chamberlain.

A Great Day By The River For Friends of the ROI

2011-05-06T07:34:00.000-07:00

This week saw the second panting day organised for members of the ROI and members of the Friends section. It was a rare opportunity of Friends of the ROI to paint alongside members in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. The location was the River Thames at Richmond and the subject was Richmond Bridge. After a cold start things warmed up nicely and some great work was produced. Here are some pictures of the day.

ROI Member Bill Dean

Dave Sandell (Friend ROI) Brian Ryder AROI

and Peter Wileman PROI

David Pilgrim, Prov ROI, Richard Price AROI and Rick Holmes Friend ROI and Wapper

Tim King, Friend ROI

Roger Dellar, ROI

Ronald Morgan, ROI

Tony Merrick, Prov ROI and Luis Morris ROI

Days like this are just one of the benefits of joining the Friends of the ROI. Membership is open to anyone with a love of oil painting. If you would like a membership form please email royaloil@btinternet.com

Join Brian, Peter, Roger, David, Philip and Ronald.....By The Thames

2011-04-15T05:44:00.000-07:00

The energetic Brian Ryder tells me he is joining in the Royal Institute of Oil Painters painting day and picnic in Richmond Bridge on the Thames on May 5.
In addition to Brian other ROI members attending include Peter Wileman (President) David Curtis, Ronald Morgan and Philip James.
It's a wonderful opportunity to paint alongside ROI members. The event is open to Friends of the ROI only which anyone can join. Eevents like this are just one of the benefits of membership. Email me for a membership application : royaloil@btinternet.com

If you are already a member of the Friends and want to book a place to this free event please contact Roger Dellar on roger.dellar@btinternet.com or call 01428 604504

Here's a picture of last years event at Windsor courtesy of Adebanji Alade.

You can see a lot more pictures of this event and read Adebanji's account of the day on his excellent blog

June Mendoza - Portrait Painter to the Stars

2011-03-26T05:41:00.000-07:00

There are few people I know with as much energy as portrait painter June Mendoza.

This is what she is currently up to:

" I am doing a whole wall for the Royal Hospital Chelsea. There will be at least 50 same size canvases in oils of the, mostly, heads of the Pensioners,---- 5 rows of 10 I go there about once a week and have finished about 35.

Have very recently finished Dr David Starkey; opera singer Felicity Palmer in my ongoing series of musicians; Valerie Grove, the author/journalist. These latter three will be in Royal Soc. of Portrait Painters annual in May.

I am currently painting the head of the Inst. of Psychiatry, King's College, Prof. Robin Murray and a conversation piece of David Mellor Q.C and Lady Cobham.

I am also painting Lord Stewartby [ in tartan trews ] ,Peregrine Massey full length in costume, with sword, as High Sherrif of Kent"

It makes me feel tired just rteading about it. And the amazing thing about JUne is ashje has been at the top of her profession for an amazingly long time. Doing some research the other day I cam accross a film reporty from the old Pathe News featuring Jiune painting the portrait of 60's singer and actress Anita Harris. This is a lovely period piece and worth you viewing. You may have to sit though a short advert first but that's the price we pay for a free to view archive. Anita starts up doing some excercises on a device that was considered high tech in 1966 when this was filmed. Then she does a bit of Judo (like you do) before trolling off to June's studio to have her portrait painted. Delightful. It's hip and goovey and I like it!

Just click on the image blow for the video to start. It will open a new window with the video in it. There is abox in the bottom right hand of the new window which makes the image bigger.

ANITA HARRIS

And here's June filmed last year for her first teaching DVD. Hardly looks a day older does she? I wish I knew her secret!

Masterclass Event Pictures

2011-03-21T04:55:00.000-07:00

The latest Masterclass event held on Sunday March 20 at the Picturecraft Gallery in Holt, North Norfolk was a big sucess wth a full house for three inspirational demonstrations by ROI artists Peter Wileman, David Curtis and Brian Ryder. It was a wonderfully relaxed and informative day made possible by Adrian Hill, Managing Director of Picturecraft, who donated his gallery for the day for the event. Adrian also is staging an exhibition in his new fine art gallery extension of works by 10 ROI members which is well worth travelling to Holt to view.

Here are some pictures from the event and of the ROI exhibtion at the Picturecraft Gallery

And in case you were wonderimg - this last picture is David Curtis's palette!

Last Few Tickets Left For Masterclass Event

2011-02-23T11:36:00.000-08:00

Tickets are selling out fast for our Masterclass event to be held at the Picturecraft Gallery in Holt, North Norfolk on Sunday March 20th. Three popular ROI members will be demonstrating on the day - David Curtis, Peter Wileman and Brian Ryder. There are just 20 tickets left. Tickets cost £59.50 and include lunch (£50 to Friends of the ROI) . The next door art materials shop is being opened up just for those attending and will be offering a special discount on the day. Adrian Hill who runs the newly refurbished gallery has also obtained discounts for local accomodation. Details and tickets available from him on 01263 711040.

This is a wonderful opportunity not just to see these artists in action but to talk to them while they paint.

This is what the timetable for the day looks like at the moment::

09.00 Coffee on arrival and chance to shop for materials
09.45 Demonstration by ROI President Peter Wileman
11.45 Coffee
12.00 Demonstration by Brian Ryder AROI
13.15 Lunch and art materials shop open
14.30 Demonstration by David Curtis ROI, RSMA
16.30 Last chnace to chop for materials and depart

If you want any more details email me on royaloil@btinternet.com

David Curtis demonstrating at last year's masterclass event

Pure Gold Gets Royal Approval

2011-02-18T05:42:00.000-08:00

The Mall Galleries current exhibition to mark the 50th anniversary of the Federation of British Artists welcomed a royal visitor yesterday in the person of HRH Princess Alexandra. The FBA is made of up nine art societies, including the ROI, and the current Pure Gold exhibition celebrates the work of the societies and their members. In this picture Princess Alexandra is talking to ROI President Peter Wileman about his work at a tea party to mark the celebrations..

And here's Peter with ROI stalwarts Dennis Syrett and Trevor Chamberlain - The Three Amigos

The Pure Gold ehibition runs until Feb 19.

Pure Gold Exhibition At The Mall Galleries

2011-02-10T04:13:00.000-08:00

The ROI is one of nine bodies that form the Federation of British artists based at London's Mall Galleries and to mark the 50th anniversary of the FBA the gallery is staging it's Pure Gold exhibition which runs from 9 - 19 of Feb. It features work from past and present members of the societies that form the FBA including previously unseen works by artists such as John Singer Sargent, Walter Sickert and William Orpen, on loan from major public and private collections, including the Tate. We will also be showcasing outstanding works by the FBA’s most eminent contemporary Member artists. Further details from The Mall Galeries
Here's a painting by current ROI member Lucy McKie which was amongst those sold on private view night on Tuesday. Still Life With Winter Light.

And another sale on the night from ROI President Peter Wileman - Winter Sunset On The Tove

Come and Watch The Masters at Work

2011-01-27T08:32:00.000-08:00

Our next ROI Masterclass is to be held on Sunday March 20 and promises to be our best ever. The location is the splendid Picturecraft Gallery in Holt in Norfolk which is being specially opened for the day for us. There will be three members demonstrating on the day. You can get as close as you lilke to the painting action and ask as many questions about technique and materials as you wish.
We are delighted to have David Curtis ROI, RSMA back for his second ROI Masterclass. David does very little teaching these days so this is a rare opportunity to watch him in action.

Along with David we also have ROI President Peter Wileman PROI, ARSMA, FRSA

And the ever popular Brian Ryder AROI

Tickets are selling fast so if you want to come along I would advise that you dont delay in booking. Tickets are £59.50 each (£50 for Friends of the ROI) and include lunch at the gallery.

Adrian Hill who runs the Picturecraft Gallery has organised a discount for local accomodation for those who plan to make a weekend if it. Remember, Holt, a beauttiful Georgian market town, is just 4 miles from the picturesque port of Blakeney on the North Norfolk coast. Adrian is also arranging for his family's next door art matertials shop to be opened up especially for those attending with discounts for all present. If you want more details please email me at royaloil@btinternet.com

You can obtain your tickets direct from Picturecraft Gallery 01263 711040, e-mail at info@picturecraftgallery.com

All three artists will have copies of their books and DVDs available for sale.

Brian Ryder Elected Associate Member Of The ROI

2011-01-19T04:22:00.000-08:00

Norfolk based landscape painter Brian Ryder has been elected to Associate Membership of the ROI after a year as Provisional Member.

Brian turned professional in 1993 to pursue a life in painting and teaching, following a long career in Architecture. The demands for his teaching skills grew and he has been teaching for 35 years, and running courses in Britain, together with painting holidays in many parts of Europe. Italy is his preference. In 2011 he will be returning to his favourite haunt in Venice.

Brian paints in most media, but all nearly always landscape based, sometimes abstracts but more impressionist and atmospheric oils being his choice approach, media and style of work, but often using pen and wash on location.

He has exhibited in many galleries in East Anglia, the Cotswolds and London where he held a one- man show of abstract landscapes in 2002. All four of his submitted oils were accepted from 2008 to 2010 for the R.O.I. exhibition at The Mall Gallery and he was then offered Provisional membership of the R.O.I. for 2010.

Brian has written a numberof books on paiting and featured in several teaching DVDs.

Brian's greatest love is his oil painting and is over the moon with his achievement with the R.O.I. and feels this association with them is the greatest achievement he has had since his first “real” oil painting some 45 years ago. Originally from North London Brian now lives in Wells-next-the-Sea, Norfolk. Here are some examples of his recent work.

Find our more about Brian on his web site: http://www.brianryder.org/

Tim Benson Elected Associate Member Of The ROI

2011-01-19T03:47:00.000-08:00

Award winning London based artist Tim Benson has been elected to Associate Member of the ROI along with Chris Bennett and Brian Ryder.

Timothy Benson was born in London, July 1978.

1996 - 1997 Art Foundation, Middlesex University.

1998 - 1999 1st year BA(hons), Fine Art, Glasgow School of Art.

1999 - 2001 2nd and 3rd years BA(hons), Fine Art, Byam Shaw School of Art.

2006 - 'Open Studio' tutor, Heatherley's School of Art, Chelsea

Over the last couple of years Tim's attention has fallen on the flatlands of East Anglia,
in particular Norfolk and Suffolk. Of this area, Tim states "It is no coincidence that this is where both Constable and Seago made some of their most powerful works, as the combination of impossibly vast skies and abrupt verticals in a sometimes overwhelmingly horizontal landscape creates views that have a stark beauty found nowhere else".

Whether it be a landscape or a portrait the same fundamentals apply.

Light, dark andcolour in the right places will create a painting. These variables are all within the artist’s control. The vision to elevate the image to something extraordinary is altogether more fleeting, something intangible that from one painting to the next is the source of elation but more commonly frustration.

Here's some examples of his recent work.

Here's a brief video about Tim's painting technique

You can find more information about Tim Benson on his web site : http://www.timbenson.net/

More information on Chris Bennett and Brian Ryder to follow.

Lucy McKie Elected Full Member of the ROI

2011-01-18T05:07:00.000-08:00

Portrait and still lufe painter Lucy McKie has been elected to full membership of the ROI from Associate Membership. She is one of three new members along with Bill Dean and Nicholas Verrall.

Born in 1974, Lucy McKie has painted since childhood and has always had a real love of portraiture. Although Lucy specialises in portraits, she also paints still life, and enjoys painting both subjects for their very different challenges. Most of her time is spent on commissioned portraits which provide a really exciting and interesting variety of sitters. She has won awards including The Barbara Tate Oil Award, The Daler and Rowney People's Choice Award, C.Roberson Award (2006 & 2007), a Stanley Grimm Award, The L.Cornelissen Award, and the second place Winsor and Newton Young Artists Award. Here are some examples of Lucy's work.

Congratulations to Lucy and more news on the other new members and associate members in the next few days.

Emails to ROI Blog

2011-01-14T11:39:00.000-08:00

Several followers have asked what is the current email to contact the ROI for enquiries relating to Friends memberships and indeed any other matters. The address we had previously has changed so you can now reach us on royaloil@btinternet.com

Ken Howard Autobiography Out In February

2010-12-23T08:43:00.000-08:00

There can be few people who have done so much to promote painting in Britain than Ken Howard RA who is also a long time member of the ROI. Ken's fans - of which there are a great many - will be pleased to know that his autobiography is out now.

It's called Light and Dark , published by the Royal Academy Of Arts, and out now on Amazon. You can pre-order a copy on Amazon at the discount price of £14 - which is £6 off the cover price. I have already got mine!

Art Event Evening a Great Success

2010-12-17T08:30:00.000-08:00

One of the really fun parts of each years ROI annual exhibtion is ther art event evenimng. Its a chnace for members of the public to come along tothe Mall Galleries, view the exhibition and actually paint alongside ROI members. This year amongst the models was a Chelsea Pensioner in his marvellous scarlet uniform. Here are some pictures from the event.

Here's David Pilgrim receiving his prize from ROI President Peter Wileman as the winner of the art event evening portrait competition

David Pilgrim with his winning painting.

David Curtis in action

Roger Dellar painting the portrait of a Chelsea Pensioner

There's still time to catch this year ROI exhibtion which is bigger and better than ever. It runs at the Mall Galleries until Sunday Dec 19

Two ROI Painters In The New Edition Of Artists and Illustrators Magazine

2010-12-10T11:23:00.000-08:00

The new January edition of the magazine is out now and features pieces by two two ROI artists. Roger Dellar contributes an insightful piece - Talking Technique over four pages which contains a link to a short video demonstration he has done for the magazine.

There is also an interesting feature on Asociate Member Paul Banning in which he reflects on his painting life.

Young Artists Shine At This Year's Show

2010-12-10T00:32:00.000-08:00

One of the exciting parts of the ROI Annual Exhibition is the section devoted to young artists under 35 sponsored by Winsor and Newton. This year there was an extraordinarily high standard and for a wonderfully insightful review of the young artists and their work please have a look at the blog of Adebanji Alade who himself was recently a star of that section. Adebanji is now a provisional member of the ROI and his review of this years's young artists is well worth reading: Adebanji Aalade Blog

Adebanji also has a a one man exhibition of his own currently running in Bath at The Bath Gallery, 6 Bridge Street Bath BA2 4AS. It's an exhibition with a difference as Adebanji - perhaps the most energetic plein air painter in Britain - has started a project to paint 500 - yes 500 - paintings of Bath in a year. This exhibition which runs throughout December is the first 211 paintings.

They really are a facinating record of one artist's take on a city. He was painting in all weathers and even at night. Do do and see for yourself. Here are some other images from the exhibition.

Adebanji also has new DVD out from Town House Films

Here's a taster.

Annual Exhibition Gets Off To Sparkling Start

2010-12-08T07:07:00.000-08:00

The ROI 123rd annual exhibition got off to a glittering start yesterday with a private view attracting a wide array of guests. It was opened by Commendatore Antonio Carluccio - best know for his food business but also a lover of painting. Antonio has just been made a patron of the ROI. Here he is with President Peter Wileman and Peter's painting of his daughter Olivia.

The 260 paintings on display were also keenly viewed by another ROI Patron - former Government Minister Michael Portillo.

Michael Portillo chatting here with ROI member Ken Howard. And here are Ken's sparkling pictures in this year's exhibition.

Here's Past President Dennis Syrett with his amazing painting which won the DAS Award at this year's exhibtion.

There was a great showing in the Winsor and Newton Under 35 Young Painters section

Visitors to this years exhibition inluded Dr Sally Bulgin (left) Editor of The Artist Magazine and Cathy Gosling from Anova Books which produces a range of excellent art book titles.

Now take a look at other members and guests looking at this years exhibtion. Don't forget double click in any image to see an enlargement

Can you tell what it is yet? Rolf Harris by June Mendoza ROI

Provisional ROI member Adebanji Alade (right) discusses some of the work

David Curtis ROI, with Presidents past and present Dennis Syrett and Peter Wileman

The Hill family from Norfolk who own the Picturecraft Gallery, art materials and framing shops in the charming Georgian market town of Holt.

David Curtis ROI with ROI Treasurer Pat Syrett

A brace of Robins - ROI member Robin McEvoy chats with watercolour artist Dr Robin Macdonald

ROI Provisional Member Brian Ryder with that "I've just sold a painting " look

Adrian Hill , Managing Director of the Picturecraft Gallery in Holt, Norfolk

The legendary painter Trevor Chamberlain ROI in good form with some of his entries.

It's a really sparking show so do come along. It runs until Sunday Dec 19. Don't forget also the Art Event Evening on Dec 16 when you can come along and paint alongside ROI memers in the gallery - or just watch. Tickets availble from the Mall Galleries

Antonio Carluccio To Open ROI Exhibtion

2010-12-03T09:15:00.000-08:00

His food may be a work of art but Antonio Carluccio, the godfather of Italian cuisine in London is also passionate about painting and has just been appointed a patron of one of Britain’s oldest art societies - The Royal Institute of Oil Painters.

Antonio who has been awarded the Commendatore OMRI by the President of Italy for services to Italian gastronomy, the equivalent of a British knighthood. was awarded also an honorary OBE in the UK.
On Tuesday December 7 He will officially open the ROI’s annual exhibition at London’s Mall Galleries.
Antonio, himself a keen painter, last year had his portrait painted by more than 50 artists simultaneously at the ROI’s Art Event evening.

Here's a picture of Antonio and ROI President Peter Wileman at last year's art event evening

ROI President Peter Wileman commented: “Food and painting have always gone together. A good meal stimulates the visual senses as well as the taste buds and that’s why I’m not surprised that Antonio is no mean artist himself. We are delighted to welcome him as a patron”
Carluccio joins former government minster Michael Portillo and actress Maureen Lipman as patrons of the ROI.
The ROI’s 123^rd annual exhibition featuring more than 260 paintings is open to the public from December 8 -19. At the Mall Galleries, The Mall near Trafalgar Square.

The ROI is the only major art society dedicated to oil painting. The Royal Institute of Oil Painters, was founded in 1882, and was granted royal status by King Edward VII in 1909.

Famous artists of the past who have shown their work in ROI exhibitions in the past include such as Alma Tadema, Macwhirter, Walter Sickert Sickert, Dame Laura Knight, Fantin Latour, Adrian Hill, Ann Redpath and even Rodin.

ROI Masterclass Event Announced

2010-11-30T08:10:00.000-08:00

Following on from the sucess of the first ROI masterclass held earlier this year, the date of the next one has been set for Sunday March 20 2011. The location will be the stunning Georgian market town of Holt in North Norfolk which is just five miles from the coast.
Demomstrating on the day will be David Curtis ROI, RSMA, Peter Wileman, PROI. , ARSMA and Brian Ryder (Prov) ROI.

David Curtis in Action

ROI President Peter Wileman

Brian Ryder

The venue will be the excellent Picturecraft Gallery and tickets are avalable from them. Lunch is inldued in the admission price and Picturecraft's linked art materials shop next door will be specially opened for those attending with discount prices. Discounts are also being obtained for local accomodation for those wishing to make a weekend of it in this glorious part of the world.

For tickets telephone Picturecraft Gallery on 01263 711040

For any other enquiries email royaloil@btinternet.com

ROI President Peter Wileman's New One Man Show

2010-11-20T07:27:00.000-08:00

Peter Wileman, President of the Royal Institutre of Oil Painters is having a one man show starting on Saturday November 27 at the John Noot Gallery in High Street, Broadway, Worcestershire in the lovely Cotswolds.

There will be more than 40 pictures on sale in the exhibition. Here's a preview of four of the pictures on sale.

White Umbrellas Port De Soller

Evening Promenade Montmatre

Prima Ballerina

Winter Sunset

The exhibition will be on from Nov 27 to December 19.

You can view more of the pictures here: Peter Wileman Exhibition

ROI Annual Exhibition Selection Day

2010-11-19T04:24:00.000-08:00

This year there were nearly 750 paintings submitted for the annual exhibtion at the Mall Galleries and as usual the selction committee made up moslty of the ruling Council of the ROI recently met to make their selection of just 260 paitings for the exhibition which runs from December 8-19. It's a tough job, as you can imagine, with only paintings getting the necessary number of votes getting through. The selection is all done in a single day which makes for quite an intensice session. Here are some pictures of this years selection.

This years entries are of a very high standard and it promises to be a bumper show. Why not come along and see for yourself. Peter Wileman President of the ROI commented:

"It's such a tough task. Sometimes pictures fail by just one vote to get through. I really hope that those who were not sucessful this year will try again."

Welcome to the ROI Blog

2010-11-17T04:29:00.000-08:00

The aim of this blog is to keep you in touch with the ROI and its activities. It's also here to let you know what our artists are getting up to. Please feel free to add your comments and ask questions and we will do our best to answer them.
The first event to let you know about is our annual exhibition which takes place in our London home - The Mall Galleries - from Decembert 8 to 19. There will be around 260 paintings on display and for sale.

And if you are a keen oil painter then why not come along to our Art Event Evening held during the exhibition on December 16. It runs from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and is an opportunity for you to paint alongside members of the ROI including David Curtis, Peter Wileman, Dennis Syrett and many more. It's very informal and models are provided. Its always been a fun evening and it raises money for an arts charity. Admission by ticket only and avaialble from the Mall Galleries on : 020 7930 6844

Here's a picture of a recent art event evening.