insideKENT Magazine Issue 39 - June 2015 | Page 21

ARTS+ENTERTAINMENT the unique CHAPPELL CONTEMPORARY An exciting art gallery located in the seaside town of Whitstable, Chappell Contemporary was established in February 2015. However, this is a seaside gallery with a difference; there are no seascapes or paintings of Whitstable Harbour to be found. In fact, the ethos is something quite different. L-R: Antares and Love XI, Joe Webb; Jasperware Grenade (Blue), Magnus Gjoen; Kennileiti Lundunar Rautt Flug, Kristjana S Williams As you walk into the gallery you are first hit with an explosion of colour, pop art, street art, maps (with a twist), and dogs made of toys! The work on show has depth, as well as beauty; this is something Paula Chappell, the gallery director, believes is paramount in the work she chooses to exhibit. She explains: “When we hang art on the walls of our homes we do not want it to act as wallpaper, we want it to put a smile on our face, to initiate conversation with our friends and be a dinner party talking point, as well as being beautiful. People are pushing the boundaries with the art they purchase, and the work I show lends itself to the needs of people wanting to own exciting, contemporary art.” Chappell Contemporary sells work by local, national and international artists. Emerging talent rubs shoulders with some of the most interesting and exciting artists working in the UK today. The gallery shows a range of work with prices starting at £50 for a signed limitededition print. Also on show are a selection of original paintings, collages and sculptures. Chappell Contemporary runs mixed show exhibitions throughout the year, as well as solo shows by some of its best-loved artists. The next solo show by Kristjana S Williams will run alongside the hugely popular Oyster Festival. The Kristjana S Williams show opens on Saturday 25th July, 10am-9pm. The artist will be in attendance. 21 A full list of artists' work available, upcoming exhibitions and events can be found at www.chappellcontemporary.com. 30 Oxford Street Whitstable CT5 1DD 01227 637329 [email protected]