Art - Molly Verity

“Abstract expressionism is as dead as a dodo,” says Molly Verity, exhibiting this week at the fabulous Crypt Gallery in Seaford, “which is a pity, because my paintings are very much of that ilk.” Molly’s work is rich in colour, and her canvases carry just more than hint of the subject matter described in their titles: ‘After the Boat Race’; ‘Creation’; ‘Green Pond’. “‘After the Boat Race’ was painted the day after I went to see the race on the Thames,” says Molly, of the image on the right. “It was the most amazing windy April day, and the painting was inspired by a weeping willow, which was producing rich swathes of crisp greenness after a long winter.” ÜMolly’s paintings are not always influenced by recent events. “I lived in a remote island off Newfoundland for a couple of years,” she says, “where there were big blue skies and little white houses. Twenty years after this, all these blues and whites started emerging in my work, unannounced. It was extraordinary.”

Molly is also a demonstrator for Caran D’Ache and an art teacher, and she is wearing both of these hats later on in the month. As part of the national Big Draw event, she is holding two children’s workshops on the 28th of October, as well as a Caran D’Ache art materials demonstration on the 27th. The workshops (ages 6-9 in the morning, 12-15 in the afternoon) cost £5 a child: tickets will go fast so book on 01273 484195 or at angie.osborne@lewes.gov.uk. The demonstration is free, but please reserve a place using the same contact details. AG