THE art space at the Cap ‘n’ Gown pub, Worcester has a new look, because an exhibition featuring abstract decorated ‘kitchen art’, vibrant floral paintings and bold semi-abstract mixed media pieces opens today, (Thursday, June 28).

And members of the public will be able to meet the artists from 5.30pm to 7pm, at the launch.

For the next two months the venue will showcase work by city based potter Chris Greening, painter Rachel Kay Hall and mixed media artist Susan Birth.

Chris Greening describes the pieces he is putting on display as ‘art for the kitchen’. Whilst they are designed for use as tapas or antipasti platters, “they also function as attractive decorative items when displayed on a work top or hung on a wall”.

Chris explained the inspiration behind his creations, saying: “The decoration is abstract. I studied marine geology as a first degree and the fluidity of slipware, which is coloured liquid clay, provides a fantastic medium for me to explore the patterns that nature produces.”

In contrast, Rachel Kay Hall’s striking floral watercolours with pen and ink are painted and stylised from real life subjects.

After successfully participating in Worcestershire Open Studios last year, Rachel relishes the opportunity to share her artwork in a less conventional setting.

She said, “I have a slightly non-conformist and fun approach to life, so a pub seems the perfect place to share my work with new audiences.”

Bold use of colour and pattern are the defining features of Susan Birth’s impactful semi-abstract landscape and still life images. She creates her artwork using a combination of acrylic paint, ink, gouache, charcoal, pastels and collage.

She said, “Self-expression through art has always been an important part of my life and I enjoy experimenting with new media and techniques.”

Cap ‘n’ Gown landlord Ted Marshall came up with the idea of having an ‘art wall’ in the pub after visiting nearby artists during last year’s Worcestershire Open Studios event.