Je tu souhaite les joueuses fêtes, bon santé et un meilleur 2012 

from Gordon

PS: If you have had spam sent using my email please accept my sincere apologies. Some half wit has been sending spam using my address which has been quite damaging.

I had been trying to fix the issue for some time (there is a recent blog entry on this subject). Fortunately Pobox have been very quick and helpful. I hope Pobox and I have now put a stop to the problem.

My e mail clears via Pobox.com.

“Trafalgar Dawn the French Perspective”.
This new painting now in print pairs with and represents the opposing view to the renowned “Trafalgar Dawn”, the view from HMS Victory at 06.05 a.m. Monday the 21st October 1805; thus each picture looks into the other.

The new picture places you onboard the French flagship with Nelson’s British fleet set against the lightening horizon and is the result of years of detailed and much original research.

As before a drawing in the margin shows the opposing fleet naming each individual ship.

Maybe you had an ancestor on one?

We have a very limited number of copies in stock so if you are quick yours could arrive before Trafalgar night, 21st October!

More are available but there will be a brief delay while new copies are produced.

For some lucky person, the original work is still available.

With out doubt the single biggest news has been the glorious exhibition at the European Parliament, Brussels last May; my grateful thanks to MEP Brian Simpson for the invitation and to his aid Phil Ball for ably assisting with the set up and dismantling of the exhibition.
The story with pop up pictures is on my blog.
The project included producing “Life on the Ocean Wave”, ISBN number 0 – 978-0-9569109-0-5.

This beautiful limited edition book includes full colour illustrations of all the paintings exhibited.

Other venues, current negotiations include with the Municipal d’Antibes on the fabulous cote d’azur and with the Cultural Museum of the Russian Navy at St Petersburg, with Plymouth University and galleries in Lille, Brussels and Albi – suggestions and contacts with more outlets would be very welcome.

Recent publicity has included generous 3 page spreads in Sea Breezes, Warships International Fleet Review (if you missed them we have electronic copies available) and Dick Durham editor of Yachting Monthly in a brief piece kindly described “Roaring Forties” as “iconic”.

New paintings
This year has included so far “Emigration, Plymouth Cattewater” Plymouth by moonlight with the clipper Samuel Plimsoll, “Laperouse at Botany Bay”, “The Pyrenees”, “Mermaids Pool” and of course the new “Trafalgar Dawn the French Perspective”.

I am currently working as described from time to time on blog entries on Titanic (anniversary of her loss next year), the war of 1812, HMS Pickle and a dusk scene of the Monaco Yacht Show.

Most recently a commissioned view of the “Pyrenees at dusk” 2000 x 500 cms was very well received into its new home where it has transformed the house.

New in print, 2011
“Trafalgar Dawn the French Perspective”.
“New and Old”.
“Emigration, Plymouth Cattewater”.
“Loch Nevis off Muck”.

2011 is predictably a difficult year for most of us, few artists being excepted from that!
The year here sees the continued re positioning of The Art of Gordon Frickers in the marine art world and further afield.

Unsurprisingly I will be focusing on best selling paintings and some modestly priced landscapes to satisfy galleries and individuals.

Looking further into 2012
www.frickers.co.uk/blog now covers most of the news as it happens or soon.

I am also very conscious none of this would have been possible with out the support, encouragement and friendships of people like yourself.

Thank you.

Maison Boitel, Rue Gambetta,
81140 Castelnau de Montmiral
Skype: gordonfrickers
+ 44 (0)1865 52 2435  ~  ~  +33 (0)977 195 595 ~
Email: gordon@frickers.co.uk | www.frickers.co.uk

What should an artist wear at this prestigious European Parliament Expo?

Your suggestions please…

“Life on the ocean wave” – a unique art event in the heart of Europe.

Invitation – Would you and your guests would like an invitation to preview “Life on the ocean wave”?

Kindly inform Gordon ASAP – see the contact details below.

Places are limited due to safety and security regulations so an early reply helps all, thank you.

This does not commit you to coming. It will ensure you receive an official invitation from the EP (Brussels) Office.

Cocktails 23 May at 19.00 hrs

ASP 3^rd floor “BAR Area” in European Parliament, Brussels

Brian Simpson MEP, the chairman of the Transport and Tourism Committee with Gordon Frickers would like to invite to you with your guests to attend a unique event, the first of its kind at the European Parliament, Brussels.

This is a considerable honour for any artist.

We are told Gordon Frickers is the first Marine Artist to be invited to exhibit at the European Parliament.

Why?

The Brussels invitation says “widely regarded as one of the finest living marine artists”…

A beautifully illustrated catalogue will guide you through a selection of the 35 marine paintings and prints.

These include a selection of key paintings, Frickers classics and new works with subjects as diverse as transport and tourism, emigration, ocean racing, Olympic sailing, superyachts, passenger and commercial shipping, ports and people.

Invitations will be going to most of the 400 MEP’s and heads of departments plus some veeeery interesting people from Britain, France and a few from further shores so this preview will be a great chance to meet some high flyers and all round interesting influential people.

Maybe you can join us after for a sociable restaurant supper?

~

New paintings will include Laperouse at Botany Bay, Trafalgar Dawn the French Perspective, Nelson at Gibraltar, the loss of Las Mercedes, Swan European Regatta, and 2 mermaids at Mermaids Pool, Kynance to name but a few.

The port of Saltash, I.K. Brunel’s bridge, Flying Scotsman 

~

An opportunity:

Enquiries are invited to advertise in the catalogue.

Following the success of the “Monte Carlo yacht show” brochure (free on application) the catalogue will be produced in similar style with the same high quality. We plan 2000 copies, and an ISBN number thus classed as a book so likely to be an item people want to keep.

Our audience is not large, it is quality.

If you know others likely to be interested don’t hesitate to pass on this Newsletter of recommend them to us, we would like to include them too!

This is a rare opportunity for any business to be seen by some of Europe’s prime movers, contact Gordon Frickers for further details.

Advertisers and their guests will automatically receive invitations and copies of the catalogue.

~

Moving swiftly on…

New in print: Since the last newsletter 2 more pictures join the collection (alas not yet in the print gallery…)

The classic

Virgin Atlantic Challenge II http://frickers.co.uk/marine-art/virgin_atlantic_ii.html

And the new;

I.K. Brunel’s Royal Albert Bridge, Saltash and the Flying Scotsman.

On the blog page http://www.frickers.co.uk/blog/2010/09/12/the-flying-scotsman/

Several of the newest paintings will go into print this year, ask for details.

Also in print is the DVD of “The boats that Built Britain”.

This BBC documentary by Form Films includes in episode 2 a (brief) interview with Gordon Frickers in Nelson’s elegant day cabin onboard HMS Victory.

~

“Repositioning”, looking ahead.

Brussels of course represents a wonderful endorsement of the Art of Gordon Frickers.

There are many advantages in promoting a recognised artist.

Two questions:

How best to capitalise on this?

How best to implement the required marketing strategy?

We have a “cunning plan” or rather, a business plan.

If you are interested in an involvement in the fine art world do ask and maybe you can contribute to building a new art business and benefit in some way…

~

Moved house

From beautiful Itzac to the enchanting hill top Castelnau de Montmiral, rated “une des belle village de France”.

The new address is now on thew web site under “contact”.

There are often surprising (pop up) pictures of CdM, life in France and many other subjects on tis blog,  frickers.co.uk/blog and of course regular snippets of news, enjoy.

The Plymouth address remains unchanged.

~

My sincere thanks to all of you, world wide, who are taking an interest in the Art of Gordon Frickers. You are furthering our culture and encouraging the arts.

My appreciation in particular of those who pay the ultimate compliment by saying those magic words “I’ll buy it“!

It is my great privilege to meet and some times work with many very exceptional people.

Contact Gordon Frickers:

As per the web site, Gordon Frickers address in France is now:

Maison Boitel, Rue Gambetta, 81140  Castelnau de Montmiral, Tarn, France.

The English (Plymouth) address remains unchanged.

Email: gordon@frickers.co.uk

Skype: gordonfrickers;

Phone: 0044 (0) 1865 52 2435 or Boitel maison + 33 (0) 563407225

We hope this newsletter has been a pleasure for you and you will pass it on.

Your comments, contributions and plain old keeping in touch will be very welcome.

Newsletter 9, European Parliament Exhibition invitation edition, The Marine Art of Gordon Frickers © March 2011

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

This to be part of a project, a series of paintings about His Majesties armed cutter Alert.

To include Alert’s capture of the American commerce raider, the brig  USS Lexington which operated quite successfully out of Morlais, Brittany – until she met the cutter Alert.

“What the French did with the Alert and its fate ?”

The following sums up the current position except:
I have not yet had time to consult my books here.
I doubt the National Musee de la Marine would have plans however there are other sources in Paris.

I will have to check my records to find the addresses.

Peter wrote
Gordon,
Super to see you. I been doing some homework concerning  the Alert being captured by the French Junon.

Junon is  a Charmant  class 32 gun frigate laid down at Rochefort 1777 and launched March 1778 and went into service in May that same year  and was wrecked in October 1780

Tons 540 tonnes
Length 44.2 metres
Breadth  – 11.2metres
Draught – 5.4 metres

I have tried to get into web site of  the National Musee de la Marine Paris  to enquire on what the French did with the Alert and its fate but getting into contacts at the museum is difficult  as all is in French.

Could you get into them and send my contact details?

The National Musee de la Marine is also based at Rochfort and Toulon and I think Brest   so they may have something.

If you do a painting of Junon and Alert then as the Junon is a specific class of frigate and we know that the French  were more consistent in ship design .

There is a serious proposal to build a full size replica of Alert which measured 70 ‘ between perpendiculars and take moulds with a view to building a class for racing.

A cutter like Alert with her low freeboard and huge sail area would pose a real challenge to modern sailors!

I am still exchanging emails  re the European Parliament Marine Art Exhibition at Brussels.

Also on the stunning moon rises I saw from the beach last autumn at Hossigur.

You may not believe it to see the attached pop up progress report but, the scene will show the emigrant clipper Samuel Plimsoll and the (now demolished) emigration buildings at Phoenix Wharf.

Of all the boats I owned the one I miss most is Wellington, Wayfarer 6778, pictures here at Bodinnick Ferry, Fowey, Cornwall.

Some of you will not have received my email Christmas card and new Christmas News letter, copy below.

Reasons for this include bounced and blocked emails (more on that below).

The Internet can be bizarre, I’d had a reply from Robin Knox-Johnston, star of my “Roaring Forties” painting, then got an, INVALID RECIPIENT message re the address!

The snow here has departed but as last week’s photos look so “Christmasie” here are 2 more.

I hope you approve this slight cheating and enjoy them! 

Today we have a grey damp day with 14 C, feels like a heat wave after last week. 

~

Reasons emails failed include: 550 INVALID RECIPIENT.

This auto reply added “You may resend the message placing the code: A45-207 somewhere in the subject to bypass the anti-spam checks” – very nice of them…

How am I supposed to remember that in future?

“I’m sorry to have to inform you that your message could not be delivered to one or more recipients” not as sorry as I am, I value my friends!

This is an automatically generated Delivery Status Notification. so, your point is?

“Delivery to the following recipients failed” anyone think email is infallible???

My favourite, and I use the word favour in it’s loosest possible terms, is “This account is protected by Bluebottle.  Please click on the following link to have your address added to the recipient’s allowed list and to ensure delivery of your email“.

Despite following the instructions most carefully I am yet to have a reply from an account protected by this enthusiastic system…

I presume it appropriately was named after one of the stars of the BBC Goon Show?

Would you like to guess what I think of it?

I almost liked: “Delivery has failed to these recipients or distribution lists: The recipient’s e-mail address was not found in the recipient’s e-mail system. Microsoft Exchange will not try to redeliver this message for you. Please check the e-mail address and try resending this message, or provide the following diagnostic text to your system administrator“.

It at least included in it’s title “Undeliverable: all the best for the festive season“.

Then I realised that was the title I’d used…

Ahh well, ce la vie, email 2009, fallible but still very useful.

~

As promised above, a copy of the newsletter for you, enjoy.

An artist’s news letter

Your news is always welcome, here is a little of my news…

That was the year that was…

Better news is prospects for 2010 and 11/12 look much improved, with copy of my ecard on your right. 

If any of the following is useful in one of your news letters, personal or business, feel, free to reproduce it or if needed, ask me for further info.

Probably the single biggest news of my year is via a client/friend I have the good fortune to be invited to exhibit at the European Parliament, Brussels next year.

Julie Clark of Savage Marine Ltd, they normally design high quality Marine architectural lighting for super yachts, has kindly offered to help with the lighting. (www.savagelighting.com)

Anyone know about grants, European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), an investor or other?

Flavour of the month?
Other significant people and places now begin to ask to show my art work

I have been asked by the editor of Sea Breezes to write 1000 words on superyachts, with photos.
To be based around my experiences on the cote d’azur in June and at Monte Carlo with the emphasis on looking at 2010.
I have written for Sea Breezes before, this time will be the most fun and good for net working.

New paintings
I have started a file round the Alert cutter and Lexington brig engagement, for my good friend Peter Goodwin.

Peter is the author of 12 fine books on historic ships and curator of HMS Victory.

The attached photo right, “Christmas Victory” was taken while visiting Peter after being filmed in Nelson’s day cabin for the BBC doc due out in the spring, “The boats that made Britain“. 

~

Additionally I am currently working on marine paintings described on my latest blog entries including Plymouth by moonlight, the Samuel Plimsoll, Porto Fino at dusk with super yachts, Laperouse at Botany Bay, the loss of the Spanish frigate Mercedes, a new Trafalgar Dawn, mermaids and HMS Unique.

New in print
During this year my team and I, Alan Tooze with Adaptgraphics and my web master have added 3 new marine prints to the range.
2 in the Prestige style,
“HMS Formidable, 1942, Seafires returning” and
“Jane Banks entering Bermuda”
and one (not really a marine print) to our Limited editions,
“The Flying Scotsman on the Tamar Bridge”.
The latter 2 are so new we have not yet had time to post them so ask me for details.

The schooner Jane Banks you may recall was the final running mate of the famous last British square rigger Waterwitch?
Now the pair are in print maybe they can be re united as a pair on your wall?
Plus, they sit very well with “A dispute settled”, which shows 2 other famous Cornish schooners, Katie Cluett and Rhoda Mary.

A New brochure, yacht orientated, created as part of the preparation to attend The Monaco Yacht Show 2009 at Monte Carlo, is considered by some a collector’s item so can we count that as a success?
Free copy on web site home page soon or better still, ask for an original in the post.

I hope you enjoy the brochure.

~

I retain a base in Plymouth thanks mostly to my very good friend and excellent fellow painter David Folley.
Partly because of the excellent light I am spending more time in Itzac, a tiny hill top village in the Northern Tarn, Midi Pyrenees, about half way between the Med and the Atlantic.
You’d be very welcome at Itzac but may need directions for the last few kilometres!

~

All my contact details are always shown on my web site page contact us –

http://www.frickers.co.uk/contact.html

~

On the subject of staying in touch, if we don’t already have a linkin link, it might help you professionally or people you know to have a link?
Plus, Linkin recommendations are very helpful to all concerned. http://www.linkedin.com/home

Now and then, a bit about the year gone and a bit of the future predicted.
I won’t write much here as my blog (www.frickers.co.uk/blog) now covers most of the news as it happens or more truly, soon after.

~

2009 was predictably a difficult year for most of us, few artists being excepted from that!
I used the year to re position myself in the marine art world and further develop my web site.
To those ends, the UK Trades Investment scheme people have been very helpful again as have the British Marine Federation.
Of the latter I am delighted to be the only artist invited to be member.

During 2009 among other designs to promote my art work, time was employed in Plymouth, visiting some of the coasts of France, Bassin de Arcachon, toured the fabulous Cote d’azur where I was based in Antibes, attended the Monaco Yacht Show.
I have been filmed with Tom Cunliffe on HMS Victory as part of a programme on the ship that carried the news of Trafalgar (“The boats that made Britain” due to be shown on the BBC next spring), by a Television Production Company called Form Films who specialize in making High End Factual documentaries.
I attended the BMF showcase at the British Ambassador’s Residence Paris, and researched in such diverse places as H.M. Hydrographic Office Taunton and the Musee Marine Paris.
These and more stories with photos are on my blog.

~

Looking further into 2010 and beyond
I am now focused primarily on the invitation to exhibit at the European Parliament, Brussels next year, date to be set but probably May ~ let me know if you’d like an invitation?

It is rare for a British artist to be invited to show at the European Parliament.
As far as I know I am the first marine artist to be invited, the first who works in England and France, the first from Midi Pyrenees, the first from Devon, the first from the Tarn and certainly the first from little Itzac.

Beside the marine paintings, I will show some of my experimental landscapes and a few other surprises including the Flying Scotsman and a cockpit view from a Boeing 727.

There are also some possibilities in New York and the French wine industry.

Will I need 2011 to recover and prepare for 2012?

With luck and a following wind 2012 will be busy too, the London Olympic people are interested in my painting, there is the war of 1812 ~ USA v Britain described by one of my American friends as a good war because both sides thought they won, the Titanic anniversary, another Vendee Globe etc.

All these new paintings are adventures, they are awaiting purchase and new homes, who will we meet through them?

~

Great paintings take time. There are only so many paintings I can produce per year and I won’t live for ever so I hope this encourages people to declare their interest, I need the encouragement and work.
I am also very conscious none of this would have been possible with out the support, encouragement and friendships of people like yourself.

I wish you and those you treasure all the festive best and a healthy, prosperous and happy 2010, thank you.

Gordon Frickers.

“I have urgent dispatches ” my painting, part of an earlier series to help raise funds to restore HMS Victory http://www.frickers.co.uk/marine-art/urgent_dispatches.html (now in limited edition) has followed my “Roaring Forties“, painted for Sir Robin Knox-Johnston and become an icon so attracted the director’s attention as did my  knowledge of the subject which he described as very extensive.

There is a lot of confusing information in books re Pickle and her commander.

Hardly surprising when one realises for examples,  no one knows where Pickle was built, that for a while the Royal Navy had 2 ships both being called Pickle and so on.

Makes her name rather appropriate don’t you think?

You can find lots about Pickle on this web site in the further reading sections.

Not sure where?

Email and I’ll send you the links.
The reason is FORM FILMS,  http://www.formmedia.co.uk , I may have mentioned  ‘Boats that Built Britain’?
They wish to interview me for  a 6-part documentary series entitled ‘The Boats that Built Britain’. This series is part of a landmark BBC4 season about the Sea. This series is currently scheduled to air in spring 2010.

Showcase at the British Ambassadors Residence 7th December 2009

I have been invited, the only marine artist,  to an excellent opportunity with other UK marine companies to showcase our work and services to a selected group of leaders from French marine industry at the British Ambassadors residence in Paris.

The event will take place from 5-8pm on Monday 7th December with Sam Davies from Roxy Sailing presenting and opening the event.

Ben Ainslie, Britain’s most successful ever Olympic sailing medalist (who is featured in one of my marine paintings http://www.frickers.co.uk/marine-art/ben_ainslie_sydney_olympics.html) will take – Questions and answers.

The showcase will coincide with the Paris Boat Show 4-13th December 2009.

The aim of the showcase event is to expose British companies operating in the Marine sector either supplying equipment or services to high quality French industry leaders.

The French Marine market has been valued at €4.96BN. With key players invited from Beneteau, Dufour, Poncin, CMN, Plastimo to name a few, this is an event not to be missed.

Where

British Ambassador’s Residence 39 rue du Faubourg Saint Honoré, 75008 Paris

Event schedule

1630             Showcase companies arrive for set up

1730             French delegates arrive and drinks served

1800             Speakers

Ambassadors Welcome

Introduction from Rob Stevens BMF CEO

Sam Davies -

Introduction from Rob Stevens BMF CEO

Ben Ainslie – Questions and answers

Thank you from Rob Stevens BMF CEO

18:30            Start of Showcase and canapés served

I try hard toi keep this blog up to date but recently there has been to much going on to keep blogging.

ASAP I will enter some back dated pages of other news and adventures, the 2 new prints, not yet on in our Print Gallery,  “Jane Banks” and “Flying Scotsman” and some exciting new marine paintings already under way.

You wish to know more about what I get up to?

There is much useful stuff on my web site re previous activities, quotations etc.
You may care to start your collection of press coverage of my activities by reviewing pages

http://www.frickers.co.uk/media.html
http://www.frickers.co.uk/about.html
http://www.frickers.co.uk/quote.html
http://www.frickers.co.uk/marine.html
http://www.frickers.co.uk/appraisals.html
http://www.frickers.co.uk/guest_speaker.html
http://www.frickers.co.uk/2approaches.html

I am supposed to be a marine painter so what on earth the above about?

Idunoh; maybe writing this and with your suggestions we can figure it out?

Today I have again been working with Alan Tooze, master printer, Adaptgraphics, on a new print, “The Flying Scotsman”; no not the Flying Dutchman.

Yes I do mean the world famous big green railway engine.

I produced this painting earlier this year after considerable research including several location visits to the site of the Royal Albert Bridge and in particular with the help of Jerry Sibley and a new friend Gareth Mawdsley, who works on the SW railways and helped with the photography and research.

The painting began life because I wished to repay a new friend, Jerry Sibley.

Jerry came to my aid when I sold 94 Radford park Road and was faced with 22 + years of collected treasures and no where to store them if I was to be out on time to keep the inclined at times to be “mr. angry” purchaser, mr. happy.

In turn I asked Jerry if there was anything I could do for him?

He said well a little picture of the Flying Scotsman… 

Such a good idea appealed to the little boy in me who watched steam trains at Bromley South with his Dad and at Victoria with his Mum…  it became quite a big picture.

Having seen the original, Jerry wrote:

“Its fabulous, what a smashing painting.  Thank you so much it really is
such a treasure.

I hope you enjoyed the change in content and painting it as much as i shall
enjoy looking at it.

What can i say “you have done me proud”, !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I wonder where this will take you next??? who knows i guess but i feel
there has to be some reason in this crazy universe for us to meet and you
to paint this, things normally happen for a reason and there are certainly many stream train buffs out there…??

Best wishes and a bright future.
Jerry”

Thus I found myself back with Adaptgraphics where Alan Tooze has patiently done a very fine job with the subtle soft colours of this most unusual “marine painting”.

This is only the second time I have painted a train, the other being “Lady of the Lake“, London to Holyhead boat train.

You can see and read about Lady of the Lake in the marine /  ports section of this site  as a detail in “The port of Chester 1863″ (a few copies still available) so to keep the price of copies low this time we are not printing on canvas except to special order, rather on 250 gms acid free conservation quality water colour paper ~ and the picture looks fabulous!

You can order your copy securely online from page

http://www.frickers.co.uk/blog/making-a-payment/

So, where should this picture go on the web site?

This railway painting shows the salt water village of Saltash on the river Tamar where once long ago sea going ships sailed and were built and Saltash passage where the ferry for Deven landed before the bridges were built

Under ports maybe?

We hope you find the following interesting, engaging, interactive, and will forward this to friends.

If we can be of further assistance, don’t hesitate to e mail info@frickers.co.uk or phone to ask.

1. In brief
2. New phone
3. I’ve moved house
4. A superb new Marine Print:
5. New on the web site
6. Blog
7. Marine paintings
8. New paintings
9. Super yachts
10. Monaco Yacht Show September 23 to 26?
11. Wotsitworth? ? ?
12. Next please
13. Sea Fever
14. Research
15. Special thank you

Welcome
Your news is always welcome; now here is a little light reading for the summer break, enjoy.

Gordon at Antibes, cote d’azur 

I made an 11 day tour to look over the super yacht industry including producing 2 paintings of harbours.

En route to Cannes I had the excellent luck to meet and have dinner with the renowned French artist Dominique Rembauville who recommended I base myself in Antibes.

This turned out to be an excellent suggestion.

The only down side is I can’t read her email address so she can’t recieve this and another excellent photo I took of her…

Can you help Dominique Rembauville contact me ?

2009 started with my first experience of a long illness, included bronchial pneumonia, leading to a visit to the Hospital at Albi. On the plus side most of the nurses are gorgeous on the minus side I did not get much work done for 5 months so could not afford one!

Having had to ease off, advertising has become necessary.

By the way, we accept payments for paintings in stages and offer a guarantee unsurpassed on the Internet despite.

Anyway following a reconnaissance of the Cote d’Azur, I am fighting fit now so watch out!

That said, my first advert in 18 years has gone into the very glossy magazine
Our new advert, a collector’s item, is bright, clear, punchie and has a great painting.

The ad reads:

Prince Philip winning at Cowes Week by Gordon Frickers.

Exclusive, professional, the best of British Marine Art

A highly experienced marine artist Gordon Frickers has many famous paintings to his credit.

“Our efforts with the painting were highly successful” Sir Robin Knox-Johnston.

“Many thanks for producing a truly beautiful painting” ~ Devonport Royal
Dockyard.

For memorable fine art of enduring worth contact or better, meet Gordon Frickers.

Like a free copy of this picture?
Email me if you would.

Superyacht Business, The Best of British is British Marine Federation glossy mag given away at all the major yacht Shows, Monte Carlo at Monaco, Fort Lauderdale etc so will show my marine painting to a whole new network of specialists.
The ad has already produced enquiries for marine paintings and at the very least will help make my name familiar as a marine artist, The future of super yachts, (or is it superyachts?)  looks healthy so the questions are, will the super yacht world realise it can benefit from  Gordon Frickers  are these people are ready for first class  marine art?

By the way, is it super yacht or is it superyacht?

As the advert comments,
“Recent clients included super yacht builders, super yacht owners, the Ministry of Defence and the government of Oman so for memorable paintings and prints of enduring worth contact or better, meet Gordon Frickers”

New phone numbers,

I have change to “Three” from Vodafone, half the price for calls including in Europe and better service.
My mobile is now +44 (0) 7588 411 720

I’ve moved house

From the enchanting Castelnau de Montmiral to beautiful Itzac.  

My Plymouth address remains unchanged, the current addresses are on

http://www.frickers.co.uk/contact.html
My email addresses are unchanged, gordon@frickers.co.uk is reliable.

A superb new Marine Print

http://www.frickers.co.uk/marine-art/formidable_seafires.html
We were talked into publishing this picture by Euro MP Brian Simson whose father served on the aircraft carrier HMS Formidable.

Brian has kindly asked if I am interested in an exhibition at the European Parliament — do fish swim, is the Pope Catholic?
See superb marine prints in our Print Gallery, purchase securely using Paypal or phone Gordon Frickers Fine Art, 01865 52 2435

New on the web site

We are making many improvements to www.frickers.co.uk. The aims include, more user friendly and sociable, easier to leave messages on, to contact us and to buy from.

Changes include a “very useful pages” section on the navigation page and a very unusual CV/résumé http://www.frickers.co.uk/about.html
We are also updating the SEO terms and making other behind the scenes upgrades.

Responding to friendly advice the site is becoming much more focused, on marine art.
None of the other pages have been deleted, rather moved to an “archive” accessible via the Navigation page so the emphasis is going increasingly onto the best and newest works.
We reason, if you see a book on a famous painter, you only see his “best” work, so we too can play that game, makes sense?

Blog

Much improved; you can help by keeping an eye on it and better, leaving comments.
Your comments on the blog really help us with feed back and SOE -search engine optimization, thank you.

Marine paintings

have been given the 2009 look.
Including THE study of Prince Philip winning at Cowes (featured on the new advert) and the Ben Ainslie an action portrait, Sydney Olympic Games which now looks magic and has attracted the attention for marketing of the London Olympic Organising Committee 2012

New paintings

Include a study of the famous “Flying Scotsman”, with Pullman coaches, in a very distinctive location.
Recognise the place???

You can better see the painting on my blog: http://www.frickers.co.uk/blog/ dated 06.06.09

Super yachts

– Potential new market? The 11 day reconnaissance of the Cote d’azur, amazing!

See the web stories under Cote d’azur!
I came away convinced superyachts are ready for the Art of Gordon Frickers; but only just; it will be a difficult market.
In the past year I have had the good fortune to paint a series of superyachts to commission.
I am encouraged by the UKTI Scheme and Superyacht UK to paint more…
The problem seems to be finding people in the industry who appreciate what fine art can do for them and their business.

Know of any leads?

I lead sent by a friend is better than advertising.

I willing pay the full industry rate of commission for your introducing a commission.

Monaco Yacht Show September 23 to 26

Based at legendary Monte Carlo, many consider this THE boat show of the year.
It is grandly titled the 19th Monaco Yacht Show – 2009 and includes the Red Arrows, evening of the 24th.

So, what are you doing this September?

Would you like to keep me company, share the adventure? You could, contact us!

I will be looking to gracefully meet professional people in the Superyacht world. I’ll be staying near Nice.
http://www.monacoyachtshow.com/index.shtml

Wotsitworth? ? ?

From time to time I am asked the question, what is my painting worth?
Recently these 2 paintings,
The New Westminster City, a merchant ship sunk while in convoy PQ13 and my client, former apprentice Mills under attack, painted about 1988.

Mr Mills said he really did fire his guns in anger at the Junkers Ju88’s but was much to excited to aim well.

He added cheerfully, 3 days later we were sunk and I lost a leg. View page http://www.frickers.co.uk/marine-art/pq_13_new_westminster_city.html
Sadly Mr Mills, my client has died and the new owner of the painting asked the question, how much?
A tea clipper study and a fine one too, “Fiery Cross” similar tale, painted about 1984, Wotsitworth ? what are they worth at auction?

The battle of Trafalgar – Most of the Trafalgar collection has become available, the originals that is, currently in a bank vault in central London – what are they worth at auction?

We know some of our prints have been changing hands for £500 +

Can you tell me what these paintings are worth?

Next please

It seems I have to concentrate on Marine art, as you know, not a great hardship for me!
I have and continue to produce some remarkable landscapes exploiting my unconventional colour vision including recently my largest landscape to date measuring 40” x 30”.
While it is entirely possible that one day the landscapes will be worth more than my marine painting, I’ve not yet found a satisfactory outlet for these often remarkable landscape paintings which sell steadily in the £350 to 2,000 price bracket.

Thus my way ahead must be focused on commercial shipping and Superyachts.

I have had several offers of exhibitions but remain choosy.
Why?
Because it is easy to get an exhibition, but expensive and they eat time. Thus unless it is likely to be a financial success why show?
Currently we are looking at offers from what I am told (well they would say that wouldn’t they) the best galleries in Toulouse and Lille.

That said serious offers are very welcome so please pass them on!

Sea Fever

Having moved from Castelnau de Montmiral, a few kilometres down the road to fair Itzac (about an hour’s drive East from Toulouse) I can confirm, Itzac is good, lots of sunshine, wonderful light for painting.
At Itzac I am renting a charming cottage. Chris and Ruth Boddington have shown me much kindness, Lizzie and George (Bod’s cats), much affection. I try to be a good guest / tenant.

There are problems though; which include, typical of minor French villages, poor internet and phone connections, a lack of studio space, remoteness and other issues, the list goes on but I won’t!
Thus I don’t intend to stay at Itzac indefinitely.

If you know of any ways to improve wifi down load speeds PLEASE speak up!!!
More serious, I have a bad case of sea fever…

Ideally, I’d look at apartments any where between La Rochelle and Brest but anywhere from South Cornwall to the Cote d’azur would be ok!

It has also been suggested, I write to some society magazines. The Lady has been mentioned.
First prob, find the right publications, do you have any suggestions ???

Maybe you know some one with a spare house needing the ultimate accessory, an Artist in Residence, a sort of guest.
Montague Dawson, had a deal like that, for one good painting per year (A Dawson marine painting now sell for £50 to 100 thousand)

What solution? Ideas please?

Research

You may like to know I am preparing new marine paintings of the “Samuel Plimsoll” loading emigrants at the Cattewater, Plymouth by moonlight.
This will be a large painting.

I have a copy of the Spurling painting of her and am looking for other pictures / plans etc.

I already have most of what I need of the Cattewater (you may recall, it is place very familiar to me), its quay’s and piers, the moorings etc and much info on the old emigrant centre, supplied by Plymouth Naval Reference Library. They in turn wish this painting to be the centre piece of an exhibition of my work in Plymouth.

Other new paintings will include an example of a superyacht, suitable for exhibition display, maybe at Porto Fino at dusk, but which superyacht?
I’m looking for pictures of HM Submarine Unique and her sisters, can you help?

A painting of the great and tragic French marine explorer Laperouse at Botany Bay still needs good photos of Botany Bay, taken from sea ward, and better pictures of the 11 ships of the First Fleet.

Most recently, a friend in New York has been asking about paintings of the new USS New York (bow made from steel recycled from the World Trade Centre), and the coming anniversary of the war of 1812, a big event in the USA.

I wonder what the Canadians will make of this anniversary of the U.S trying to take over their country?
Also for 2012, just maybe the London Olympics; the organising committee are interested in marketing my work with Ben Ainslie and maybe similar new paintings.
If we can be of further assistance, don’t hesitate to e mail  info@frickers.co.uk or phone to ask.

~ ~ ~

My sincere thanks to all of you who take an interest in my art, you furthering the arts and are all helping my career.
My appreciation in particular those who send leads, commissions and pay the ultimate compliment, by saying those magic words  “I’ll buy it”!

Robin Knox- Johnston said to me, “Gordon like my work, you have no choice, it’s not a job it’s a calling”,

Wishing you happiness, good health and prosperity, and hoping we meet again soon,

Gordon Frickers, marine artist, Itzac, august 2009.

We hope this newsletter has been a pleasure for you and you will pass it on, your comments, contributions and plain old keeping in touch will be very welcome.

This new steam train painting is very different to the previous “train on a bridge” I have painted!  

That was “Lady of the Lake” pulling the afternoon express from Holyhead to Chester in 1863 http://www.frickers.co.uk/marine-art/chester.html 

over a bridge built by another legendary person, no lesser person than the famous Robert Stevenson (of the engine “Rocket“ fame).

The “railway” part of Port of Chester was researched with the help of  The Merseyside Model Railway Society as our  primary research facility.

An introduction being made by senior member Mr George Winterburn and Mr Rodney James, the society librarian.

The club,  Merseyside Model Railway Society has 32 rooms and with over 200 members.

It is one of the foremost in Britain, renowned for the accuracy and detail of it’s museum quality work..

In turn Gordon was able to help the club with some issues over colours of old rolling stock, questions long unanswered, carriges  as shown in B/w photos; colour and paint being Gordon’s  forte.

The “Port of Chester” was a large painting by today’s standards, 5 feet across, there is a delightful detail on the web page of “Lady of the Lake” on Robert Stevenson steel girder bridge.

You can read up on the Robert Stevenson bridge and “Lady of the Lake“on page http://www.frickers.co.uk/marine-art/chester_extra.html.

We still have a few copies left of the fascinating signed print of this painting, it even has permission for the Chester Coat of arms in the margin, very unique!

You can order a copy securely online from our page:

http://www.frickers.co.uk/prints.html

We anticipate this painting of the Flying Scotsman will be published some time in the next 3 or 4 months so if you would like a copy contact us ASAP and we will keep you posted or keep watching this blog.