Remembrance / Love In Art Exhibition Draws Old Friends And New

Asia Chan-Rose held her second solo sculpture exhibition at Plas Clough in Denbigh on May 20 to 22nd, and welcomed guests from as far afield as Surrey and Hampshire to enjoy the experience.

The opening was on Friday May 20th, which saw the unveiling of Remembrance, a statue both conceived during and inspired by the Covid pandemic. It was dedicated to all who served, and continue to serve, in a spirit of self-sacrifice, whether in the medical services, armed forces, or in a civilian capacity.

There had been repeated storm warnings throughout the Friday, but while the Clwyd valley towards Ruthin was shrouded in rain, Plas Clough was remarkably pleasant. Just before the unveiling, a sudden shower threatened to dampen the occasion, but instead served a beautiful double rainbow in front of the collected ensemble. Then, as the cloth was removed from Remembrance, a shaft of sunlight broke through and struck the statue. It was both amazing and humbling, and brought delight to all.

Guests wandered the garden to study and ponder the 20 pieces of the collection, with notable mention of the Carefree/Wind series, the changeability of Robinson Crusoe, and deeply touching inspiration behind Mother and Child.

Saturday and Sunday saw a variety of visitors, whether local Denbigh residents or from further afield in Conwy, Flintshire and even London. As ever, Asia was on hand to lead the curious into her works, with her infectious enthusiasm and deep passion for her subject. Typically, the focus was always on the work and not on herself, no matter the compliments.

The exhibition also featured paintings by her late father-in-law, Paul Rose, a widely known and respected figure in the field of African wildlife art. Many of the guests poured over the paintings and prints on display, searching for the elusive tortoises Paul was famous for hiding in each and every canvas.

A satisfying weekend in beautiful surroundings, the exhibition was a blessing for all, and new friendships are a sign of more conversations to come.