Craig Davison, whose naïve and energetic paintings have made him one of the gallery’s most popular artists, will be on hand to talk to art lovers between 12 noon and 3pm on Saturday 4 July, when the whole of the gallery will be given over to his paintings. Visitors can also enjoy canapés and drinks from the Michelin-starred Pipe and Glass Inn at South Dalton. Sheffield-born Craig started his career as a cartoonist, and has also worked in computer games as an animator and games designer, and as a freelance sculptor, including modeling action figures for Doctor Who and Harry Potter. Craig, who now lives in County Durham, says: “I would love to say that each painting begins with a set of detailed sketches and colour studies, but for me that isn’t the case. As soon as I have a rough doodle, I want to start – I can’t wait to get stuck into the painting. “I like the finished paintings to have a slightly naïve, grubby look with lots of energy – which, when I think about it, sums up my childhood!” Robert Power, director of the Artmarket gallery says: “Craig is one of our top artists and rarely does gallery appearances. We will have some rare original oils and pencil sketches on show, and will be turning the gallery over to his work for the day.” Cottingham Day is a day of celebrations of the town, and last year attracted over 15,000 visitors. As well as Craig’s personal appearance at the Artmarket gallery, visitors can enjoy a dog show, birds of prey demonstrations, classic cars and motorcycles, a cycle race and live music.
