An art studio in a former pig farm is launching its second summer season with an exhibition by a South African artist which promises to light up the Suffolk skyline.
Spirit Studios in Benhall is the passionate project of John and Kate Martin, London gallery directors who have lived in Suffolk since childhood.
Three years ago they set about converting their former pig farm, set in 20 acress of meadows on the Suffolk coast, into a must-see gallery, and this summer they will be showcasing the impressive work of artist Deborah Bell.
The exhibition, presented jointly by John Martin Gallery and Everard Read Gallery, includes Bell's 4m hight figure of Artemis (2009-11) shown at Glyndebourne in 2012 but now beautifully placed in a Suffolk field.
"As architectural spaces, our huge barns offer the sort of volume that artists crave," said John, "but also its location, close to the coast, is pretty special and the buildings demand really ambitious exhibitions."
"Any concerns we may have had about attracting visitors to a rural location faded as soon as we opened the doors last June. It is exciting to be working here and to feel part of something very exciting taking place on the Suffolk coast."
As well as Bell's work, the exhibition will also show the work two abstact artists, Mario Lobedan and William Peers.
Like Bell, their work is inspired by landscape and the natural world.
Spirit Studios' summer exhibitions 2024 will run from June 8 until August 3.
The gallery is open on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 10am-5pm.
Admission is free.
Timed bookings are required so, to book, go to www.spiritstudios.co.uk
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