Northlight Gallery shines a Kind of Blue

The latest exhibition from Stromness-based potter and ceramicist Elaine Henderson will explore the colour blue, a colour synonymous with the seas and skies surrounding Orkney.

The latest exhibition from Stromness-based potter and ceramicist Elaine Henderson will explore the colour blue, a colour synonymous with the seas and skies surrounding Orkney.

The new collection, titled ‘Kind of Blue’, will go on display at the Northlight Gallery in Stromness between the 1st and 6th of September featuring Elaine’s most recent work.

'Kind of Blue', Elaine Henderson's new exhibition
'Kind of Blue', Elaine Henderson's new exhibition


“The title comes from an album by jazz musician Miles Davis, which to my ears is the sound of freedom, risk, wit and restrained ‘coolness’, but at the same time is full of feeling. It’s what I aspire to with my work!” said Elaine.

“It’s also a chance to investigate the colour and explore why so many people love it, and how it works optically.”

The exhibition will feature a mix of 3D and 2D pieces, including porcelain, white earthenware and terracotta bowls and vases, as well as monoprints taken from plaster and transferred to ceramic slabs, and abstract glazed panels and tiles.

Elaine at work in her Stromness studio
Elaine at work in her Stromness studio


There will also be a video installation from Elaine’s husband, Mike, showing photographic interpretations of blue, including sequences of cloud watching and underwater reflections.

“I use my exhibitions to push myself forward, in technique, ideas or knowledge. In this case I feel I am at the start of a whole new direction, which is very exciting,” said Elaine. “I hope people will get pleasure and a sense of fun from seeing my work.”

The Northlight Gallery in Stromness
The Northlight Gallery in Stromness


You can see ‘Kind of Blue’ at the Northlight Gallery on Graham Place in Stromness between the 1st and 6th of September. The gallery is open daily between 10am and 4pm.


The Digital Orkney project has been part financed by the Scottish Government and the European Community Orkney LEADER 2014-2020 Programme.

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