During tough economic times galleries all over the world including in Canada prefer to host group exhibitions instead of solo shows.
The reason for this is that there is simply less risk. In a group show if one artist proves unpopular at least the others might pick up the slack. But if a solo show fails the gallery stands to lose a great deal of money in terms of its investment and forecast profit.
It is therefore surprising to learn that some galleries believe in certain artists enough to still invest in solo shows.
In the UK for instance, Courcoux and Courcoux has put its money where its mouth is and invited Paul Treasure, the landscape painter, to once again exhibit his paintings with them in a solo show that runs until October 9.
The gallery sold 14 expensive paintings on the first day of the exhibition alone.
“This was a very good start to the show,” says owner Ian Courcoux. “We have got artists from all over Europe and the irony of it is that our most local artist is our most successful artist. The reason for this I think is that he paints rivers such as the Itchen and the Test in a contemporary style - nothing chocolate boxy about it. We have sold two to three that are not quite abstract but are getting that way where he’s gone mad with the paint and are almost like a Jackson Pollock. People love the work and Paul is not afraid to experiment. Some of his work is on linen and fabric.”
Paul Treasure adds: “I’m delighted with the response to my new body of work and the gallery is a perfect place to showcase it.”
www.paultreasurepaintings.co.uk
