From Little Acorns Grow Mighty Hopes: An Exhibition of Hand-Drawn Natural Wonders
Art of Protest Gallery, Walmgate, York – Opening October 25, 2024
Art of Protest Gallery proudly presents “From Little Acorns Grow Mighty Hopes” an evocative art exhibition featuring the meticulously hand-drawn illustrations by renowned artist CJP.
Opening to the public on Friday, October 25, 2024, at The Art of Protest Gallery, this exhibition invites viewers to connect with the majesty of the UK’s nature through CJP’s stunning skills.
Among the highlights of the exhibition are two original pen and ink works inspired by the recent felling of the iconic Sycamore Gap tree along Hadrian’s Wall. Craig Humble owner of the gallery said “Like all of us CJP was astounded by the news of the felling of this famous old tree of the North. CJP see’s these grand old trees as shrines to our natural world, truly worthy of our reverence. These artworks serve as poignant reminders of the fragility of nature and the importance of preserving our heritage.”
This will be the world’s first chance to see CJP’s detailed observations of two of the UK’s most magnificent trees: the “Majesty Oak” and the “King Beech.”
- The Majesty Oak: Known as “Majesty,” is the Fredville Oak and celebrated as one of the most impressive Oaks in Great Britain and Europe. With a long trunk and a substantial crown. CJP captures its grandeur, highlighting the hollow void left by a lost limb and the fauna which calls this tree it’s home.
- The King Beech: This extraordinary ink pen study showcases a giant ancient Beech tree (Fagus sylvatica) near CJP’s home in Sussex, boasting an impressive canopy width of approximately 48 meters. His drawing intricately depicts the tree while including the diverse wildlife that inhabits this majestic tree; owls, squirrels, ravens, and bats catch our eye as we survey this magnificent piece. This colossal exemplar is lost in the heart of an old English wood on private land away from any footpaths.
CJP, a former art director turned photographer and now fine artist, employs a 0.03mm Uninib pen to create his detailed pointillist drawings. His artistic journey reflects a deep bond between his disciplines, blending Imagination, illustration, and fine art to narrate the story of nature in a contemporary context. Of the new works CJP said “after seeing the Sycamore Gap tree felled I felt I needed to document the real experience of being in the presence of these magnificent organic shrines to nature and time. They are living documents of our country and world; places of note by their spiritual beauty, longevity and resilience”.
The exhibition will feature both original artworks and fine art prints, making it an exceptional opportunity for art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike to own a piece of CJP’s extraordinary vision.