AN ARTIST from Stratford questions the place of religion in the 21st century in his latest exhibition in the town.
Hamish Blakely portrays angels out of a job and left to fend for themselves in a world that does not want them in the exhibition ‘Out Of Work Angels’ at the town’s Castle Galleries.
The modern day obsession with celebrities and the media have been married with the celestial beings to explore the decline of of spirituality and belief in society.
The realistic paintings show the angels’ fall from grace, turning to alcohol, and fighting.
Hamish said: “The Church has quite consistently failed to appeal to a younger audience. As is commonly reported, the younger generation is, in growing numbers, showing disenchantment with religion.
“This lack of belief provokes a wonderful opportunity to ask what the consequences could be for the universe if these ethereal guardians are not called upon as often as they used to be.”
Hamish began his creative career studying at Wimbledon School of Art and Kingston University before becoming a professional illustrator. Now he focuses on painting and has made Stratford his adopted home.
The exhibition is free to view at the Bards Walk gallery and runs from August 15 to 30.
Visit www.castlegalleries.com for more information.
