Capturing Unity: A Night at The Portrait Show
On a Crisp November evening, art enthusiasts, football fans and supporters of the talented artist Asis Patel gathered at the Haus On The Hill in Brighton for a unique celebration of The Portrait Show.
Each portrait, whether depicting famous football icons or capturing the essence of a local Brightonian, utilised only six colours. This intentional choice symbolised that, beneath our diverse surfaces, we share the same six shades. This deeply resonated with show attendees and sparked a conversation about diversity.
Haus On The Hill Pub provided an intimate yet vibrant setting for the showcase. The decision to attend was an easy one for many, drawn by the allure of supporting a local up-and-coming artist / friend and the anticipation of partaking in the workshops created by Asis Patel.
As attendees entered, they were greeted by an impressive array of portraits, each telling a story with its vibrant colours. The standout exhibits included the striking portraits of the three lions Saka, Rashford, and Sangho, reflecting both football prowess and artistic finesse. What added an extra layer of depth was the presence of some of the individuals featured in the portraits, turning the room into a more familiar atmosphere.
One of the defining features of "The Portrait Show" was Patel's commitment to engagement. Attendees were invited to participate in a workshop, drawing inspiration from the portraits on display. The joy and enthusiasm were palpable, making it not just an exhibition but a shared experience.
The six-colour palette served not only as a visual motif but also as a shared language that connected everyone in the room. While the venue's atmosphere buzzed with creative energy, it presented a challenge. The inability to display the artwork on the walls was a constraint that limited the visual impact. Despite this challenge, the turnout for Patel's first show was nothing short of incredible.
The packed rooms were a testament to the artist's influence and the community's support. The sheer impressiveness of the filled space and the visual feast of vibrant portraits made it a really enjoyable show to attend. One room was dedicated to showcasing select portraits available for purchase, offering attendees the chance to take a piece of the evening home.
While the opportunity to interact with Patel was missed due to his hands-on involvement in running workshops, the impact of the show lingered. I was left with a sense of unity and inspiration. "The Portrait Show" was not just an art show; it was a celebration of shared identity and creative expression and seeing a fellow asian in the art world always leaves me wanting to empower them. I would undoubtedly recommend this show to others, and I look forward to witnessing the continued artistic journey of Asis Patel.
You can keep up to date with Asis Patel by following him on instagram @asispatel
