Speak to any artist and they’ll all agree that a solo exhibition is the pinnacle of success. An exhibition at a prestigious London gallery cannot be bettered. Twenty-one solo exhibitions is simply fantasy.
But not for Robert Kelsey, the eminent Scottish artist, who is looking forward to his 21st solo event next spring.
“It will be with Thompson’s in Marylebone,” reveals the former school teacher, who has exhibited with the gallery for almost two decades.
The experienced artist has some advice for those aspiring to exhibit in such sought after galleries.
“John Thompson, owner of Thompson’s, says that he, like many gallery owners, is approached by countless artists. Some he likes but he does not pursue them for solo exhibitions because he believes they do not have the ability to produce more of the same and sustain the high standard necessary. I do. I have been organising exhibitions since the age of 18, planning how much work is required, ordering the canvases and frames, and producing the paintings for deadlines. Putting a solo exhibition together is a discipline and you have to be prepared to put in the hours required in the studio to meet the deadlines.”
He adds: “Listening to what the gallery wants is also important rather than ignoring them and going your own way. For instance, on many occasions John has asked me to explore new territory to bring a fresh look to each new exhibition. I have done that and it works well. We’re now at the point where Thompson’s trusts me to produce 50 paintings for a solo exhibition and they don’t even come and check up on them because they know what they’ll get from me. That’s a great sign of confidence.”
In 20 years of painting full-time Robert has accrued more than 1,000 collectors but this wouldn't have happened without Robert making an emotional connection with the collectors through his paintings. "I love to paint, and this joy communicates itself through my canvases," he concludes.
