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Sloane Square exhibition for Aldbourne artist

Pete Davison - 10/05/2011

Aldbourne-based artist Nicky Leigh will be exhibiting a collection of paintings and prints inspired by Italian culture and architecture at Sloane Square hangout Caffè Fratelli next month.

The exhibition marks the end of Nicky's first year of a three-year stint as artist in residence for the coffee house and deli chain, and is her second major exhibition of work at the cafe.

This year Nicky has added a selection of works reflecting the unique presence of Italy in the history of the motor vehicle, with a landmark item being the iconic Fiat 500 along with a number of other instantly recognisable classics that will appeal to motoring enthusiasts and art lovers alike.

Nicky will also be showing more of her Italian scenes and landscapes as well as some more individual pieces.

Nicky explained: “My subtle use of colour owes an obvious debt to the fresco tradition that characterizes such a large part of Italy’s artistic heritage and lends itself easily to diverse images that are reminiscent of the warmth, elegance and flamboyance that defines Italy.”

A private view will be held at the cafe, 10 Duke of York Square, Sloane Square, London, on Thursday, June 23.

Twenty percent of the proceeds from the sale of limited edition goody bags, featuring one of Nicky's designs and containing hair care and deli products, will be donated to the Toni & Guy Charitable Foundation, which supports a range of charities, including a children’s refuge in Italy.

Art lovers who would like an invitation to the private view, or would like to commission, buy or exhibit Nicky's work, can contact the artist via her website, www.nickyleigh.co.uk

Closer to home, a painting by Nicky on an equestrian theme will be auctioned at Newbury Racecourse this Friday (May 13) by former trainer Charlie Brooks in aid of the charity Scope.

The artist was asked to donate a 'money can't buy' piece of work for Scope Newbury Race Day, and produced Tacking Up, a painting of horse tack over a tartan blanket.