Exeter artists turn away from traditional landscapes in bold new exhibition

A new art exhibition in Exeter is set to challenge the South West’s long-standing tradition of picturesque coastal and rural landscapes. 

Not A Pretty Landscape, opening at Kaleider Studios on January 31 and running through February 1, brings together 15 artists whose works explore contemporary and unconventional views of the region.

The exhibition is curated by Exeter-based artist Claire Le Day, who told Exeter Today the show aims to broaden perceptions of West Country art.

“The idea behind the exhibition has grown out of decades of living in the South West, and a long-held desire to see galleries and exhibitions showing something beyond the region’s traditional seascapes,” Claire said. 

“While beautiful landscapes certainly have their place, they currently dominate the market. I wanted to challenge what the South West is best known for and introduce a more contemporary feel to the region’s art scene.”

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The exhibition also supports artists directly. 

“Not A Pretty Landscape is a group show where artists are able to keep 100% of their profits, something that felt important and increasingly necessary,” Claire said. 

“I was genuinely overwhelmed by the response to the open call. There were no rules and no requirement for previous experience - just one condition: no pretty landscapes.” 

“The result is a collection of 15 eclectic artists presenting a wide and exciting variety of work, without an estuary view in sight.”

Featured artists include Jo Beer, whose portraits have recently been recognised by the National Portrait Gallery, the Royal Society of Portrait Painters, and the Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer Award. 

Alongside established names, several artists are exhibiting publicly for the first time, giving them an opportunity to engage directly with the local art community.

“The majority of artists will be present throughout the weekend to meet visitors, discuss their work, and manage their own sales directly,” Claire said. 

“This project has been driven by passion rather than experience, and I’m incredibly grateful for the support and collective effort that has brought it together.”

The exhibition draws inspiration from historic group shows that challenged artistic conventions, including early Impressionist exhibitions and the ‘Rejects’ show curated by Art Friend Gallery, which featured works turned down by the Royal Academy’s Summer Exhibition.

Visitors will be able to purchase original works as well as more affordable prints and cards. 

The exhibition is sponsored by Exeter-based Alltrust Services and will take place at Kaleider Studios, 45 Preston Street, Exeter. Entry is free.