Eighteen months ago, Tim Fisher (at the NLG) asked me if I would like to have an exhibition in 2020. I, of course, said “yes.” My one caveat being if I was still alive.
Tim’s retort was, “Well, if you are not sunny side up, it can be a retrospective.” Hence the title: Sunny Side Up, as I’m still very much alive.
- Venus Griffiths
Twenty-seven years ago, in Harrogate Hospital, recovering from life threatening injuries, Venus wrote this poem.
I need Skiddaw to embrace me
Blencathra to blush
I need the valleys to bathe me
Derwent to wash the pain way
I need the tall beeches for support
I want to be home.
It expresses her love of the Lakes and her belief in its healing powers.
“Every day I am thankful to be living and painting in the Lakes.” - Venus Griffiths
Venus Griffiths is a local painter that lives in Keswick. She is known for her bright work of the Cumbrian fells, as well as her beautiful renditions of the meadows and fields. She captures not just the wonderful colours, but also the happiness and enjoyment one cannot help but feel when surrounded by the places she paints.
Venus was awarded a scholarship to Wakefield Art College. She went on to raise four children before gaining a place at Trent University. When she moved to Keswick in 1988, she took a part time art teaching position. She also set up her own studio at home. Eventually, she gave up teaching in order to concentrate on her own work, which includes oils, acrylics, watercolours and mono screen prints.
Exhibition Paintings:
