Artist’s use of tar to be displayed in solo exhibition at Salisbury gallery

An artist known for her monochrome paintings in tar will have her work displayed in a solo exhibition at an art gallery in Salisbury.

Eleanor Bartlett, who is based in Bradford upon Avon, will have her work showcased at the Vanner Gallery from June 14 – July 27.

She has had her work displayed in Salisbury before when a collection of wax tablets went on show in the cloisters of Salisbury Cathedral in 2017.

Vanner Gallery director, David Christie, said: “One of Eleanor’s paintings was featured in our inaugural exhibition ‘Connect’ in 2021 and we are thrilled to welcome her back to the gallery for this solo presentation.

“We adore Eleanor’s work for its uncompromising power and panache.”

Ms Bartlett’s recent highlights include the Aesthetica Art Prize 2024 exhibition at York Art Gallery, a solo exhibition at Beam in Nottingham last November, and an installation at Clifton Cathedral in Bristol in June 2023.

She said: “The work continues to describe elemental form within the void, using industrial materials such as tar, wax and metal paint to suggest toil and endurance.

“To a great extent it is the behaviour of the materials which directs the work. There exists a power to persuade without recourse to explanation.”

Ms Bartlett’s solo exhibition follows that of sculptor Rebecca Newnham.

Based in Tisbury’s Tuckingmill, Ms Newnham has showcased her work nationally and internationally.

Her exhibition, which finishes on June 8 having been in place since May 3, is titled ‘Brook | Marsh | Moss’ and represents her third appearance at the High Street venue.

Her work was part of group exhibitions on the two previous occasions.

The exhibition, featuring six distinct series, revolves around riparian zones such as riverbanks and salt marshes, including life that thrives there.

It features distinctive wall-mounted mosaic glass panels, floor-mounted structures and cast tree branches.

She has also had her worked displayed both inside and around the city’s cathedral in the past.

The Vanner Gallery is a contemporary art gallery which opened in 2021.

It has hosted numerous exhibitions featuring artists known nationally and around the world.