An exhibition of paintings of Blenheim Palace commissioned by the late 11th Duke of Marlborough and his daughter Lady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill opened with a Private Preview Benefit Vernissage at Findlay Galleries, on Thursday, June 7th, 2018, immediately followed by a dinner with Guests of Honor Lady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill, Chairmen of the Blenheim Foundation, and the artist, British Contemporary Impressionist Charles Neal.
Since 1985, The Blenheim Foundation has worked to restore and preserve the historical and artistic tradition of Blenheim Palace. The Palace was the gift of Queen Anne and a grateful nation to the first Duke of Marlborough for his great victory at the Battle of Blenheim in 1704 and has since been an important historic part of the royal family’s history. The Foundation aims to restore and preserve Blenheim and Blenheim Park as a place of historic and architectural interest, of natural beauty, and as a source of education in the arts of architecture, landscaping and history.
The late eleventh Duke of Marlborough and Lady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill commissioned Charles Neal to paint the interior and grounds of Blenheim Palace. Neal has spent the past three years studying and researching the Palace, establishing himself as an authority on the subjects. The collection serves as the inaugural exhibition of paintings of Blenheim Palace, it captures the beauty and essence of the Palace and Park, and the longevity of the paintings will serve as a historic memorialization. Charles Neal is one of the few artists permitted to paint at the grounds and interiors at the Palace. Captivated by changes in light and atmosphere, Neal utilizes a style that blends impressionism and realism to portray the lush gardens and enigmatic halls of Blenheim. His works radiate serenity, beauty, and mystery, while also examining the effect of time – a theme Neal constantly contemplates in his works. The result is a series of stunning interiors and landscapes, uniquely captured in what Neal describes as an ‘Alter Realist’ style.
Findlay Galleries has proudly represented Neal for over 13 years. He has exhibited worldwide, with works hung at the Royal Society of British artists, and represented in many private and corporate collections.
A portion of the proceeds from this exhibition will support the Blenheim Foundation, and all donations for the event are entirely presented to the Foundation, as the evening is fully underwritten by Wally Findlay Galleries International.
ABOUT FINDLAY:
Over our 149-year history, Findlay Galleries has proudly represented many superb artists embodying various schools of art throughout time. William Wadsworth Findlay established the first gallery location in Kansas City, Missouri in 1870.
The presidency of the gallery was passed on to William’s eldest son, Walstein C. Findlay Sr. and later to Walstein C. Findlay Jr. (Wally). Under Wally’s presidency the gallery thrived, becoming a well-known cultural destination and opening new locations in Chicago (1931), Palm Beach (1961), New York City (1964), Paris and Beverly Hills (1971). Today, the tradition of commitment to excellence in the fi ne arts is continued by the company’s Chairman and CEO, James R. Borynack, who acquired the company in late 1998.
Over the years, Findlay Galleries has showcased many different genres, from the Impressionists in the 1870s, to Fauvism in the early-twentieth century. Today, the gallery represents a group of distinguished contemporary artists, both European and American.
By practicing the highest standards in our relationship with both the artist and the collector, the gallery upholds its mission to promote and provide quality works by great artistic talents.
