This week I had the pleasure of interviewing the owner of one of York’s local galleries – Blue Tree Gallery. I knew I would love the gallery before I entered as it always looked so inviting every time I would pass by on my tedious trek to University.
When I entered, I was warmly welcomed by Maria who began her passion project of opening Blue Tree in 2009. This time, being an unnerving and somewhat apprehensive leap of faith, as it was just off the back of the recession. People weren’t necessarily looking to invest in a new piece of artwork during this financially precarious period, and consequently it was not the most secure foundation for a new business. But against the odds, it is still flourishing today, 15 years later!
In relation to the art itself, the gallery’s range is infinite. From unique jewellery pieces to monoprint illustrations, they manage to display such a variety in their small space that even if you appreciate art to a very tiny degree, you should find something that catches your eye.
I asked Maria what exhibition she felt she had a particular personal affinity with: “Our most eclectic shows are the best, when we have four or so artists, four very different styles, but four styles that we really love.” She repeated the word ‘eclectic’, emphasising that is how she would describe the style of art they display – “eclectic over linear”.
Maria also believes in a significant focus on colour; the art on show really does reflect this pursued direction, revealing why it is such an eye-catching window display for passersby.
In addition to colour, Maria explained how the genre of art that Blue Tree tends to exhibit is: “definitely contemporary fine art, rather than traditional – even our landscapes aren’t a traditional view of the world.” This is exactly what I loved about the exhibition: the original take on modern art that was elegantly displayed.
Usually, I find modern art too interpretive and often l will be left questioning whether I really considered it art at all in the traditional sense, but Blue Tree’s art managed to completely avoid this. All of the art was modern in a tasteful, beautiful way that screamed creativity and a love for our surroundings and nature.
We also discussed the exhibiting process, putting oneself in the artist’s shoes rather than the curator. Maria explained to me how the artist will apply by sending images of their work and a small statement relating to it – about their process, any previous exhibitions or competitions and what their art focuses on. They will promote themselves and reach out to Maria, and often their work will be submitted into multiple exhibitions over the years and the gallery will build up a rapport with them.
Lastly, I was intrigued to find out about the art opportunities in York and whether Maria felt that York was a place with lots of artistic growth and promise. I asked her her views on the York Art Scene: “I think art has an amazing art scene.” Maria feels as though the creators attract other creators and art becomes a local community either intentionally or unintentionally.
She continued: “the art scene is super vibrant and there are so many talented people, such a good mix of media, potters, painters, jewellery makers – all the applied art.” She added that she believes this variety is what spurs on the success of art galleries in York and that due to this, the city has acquired a reputation for independent art galleries.
I thoroughly enjoyed the autumn exhibition on display, but even more exciting is the imminent arrival of Blue Tree gallery’s ‘Winter In Colour’ exhibition which is now on display from the 9th of November! I encourage any art lovers to make their way to Blue Tree Gallery and to embrace the “eclectic” artistry first-hand.
