Ayr artist Michael G Clark finds an unusual exhibition space for his latest works

Dec 31 2010 by Yonnie McInnes, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

‘CLARET and Christmas’ is an exhibition of paintings by Ayr’s Michael G Clark being held in an unusual venue.

You can see his latest works in the brand new tasting room of Corney and Barrow, Ayr, until December 31, before he heads for Thompson’s of Marylebone, London in the New Year to stage his first solo exhibition in the city since 1999.

Michael, who lives in Doonfoot, feels this shop, in Academy Street, is one of Ayr’s hidden gems.

His paintings on show there, and for his London exhibition, have been inspired by recent trips to Paris and the South West of France.

Michael said: “Studying in Edinburgh I spent most of my spare income on paint and bottles of wine in the old Edinburgh Wine Bar on Hanover Street. The bar was mostly stocked with lovely bottles from France and it is French wine that I still drink most days. The country continues to influence my work and imbibing.”

Michael, is also a curator of the Maclaurin Trust, Rozelle, and responsible for buying paintings.

A former Prestwick Academy pupil, he has forged a considerable career in the art world with solo exhibitions at the Open Eye, Edinburgh; Sally Hunter Fine Art, London; and the Chelsea Flower Show, while his work has been selected for prestigious group exhibitions including the Royal Scottish Society of Painters in Watercolour and the Panter and Hall, Mayfair, London, Scottish exhibition.

For details about wine tasting events, cellaring, weddings, to discuss buying wine or simply to visit the fascinating cellars that stretch right under the town centre, just send an email to ayr@corneyandbarrow.com