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International artist opens Newquay gallery
By Warren Wilkins 25th July 2018
Photo: Warren Wilkins
AN internationally recognised artist has opened a new art, design and lifestyle gallery in Newquay.
Ben Allen, who lives in the town, has launched FWRD. at Hope Yard off Hope Terrace showing original artwork, limited edition prints, hand-crafted vintage and industrial furniture, lighting and sculpture.
The gallery features art from Ben himself who is famed for his modern pop-inspired artwork. Various international artists are showcased including Andrew Millar, who is renowned for creating collages on polaroids, as well as local artists such as Lionel Dufau who sign writes and creates sculptural Mexican wrestling mask wearing garden ornaments.
Much of Ben's work, which has graffiti, punk and comic book influences, falls into the movement of pop surrealism, a new wave of expressive art described as an underground visual art movement. Celebrities including Richard Branson, Stephen Dorff and Jade Jagger have all bought Ben's artwork. His art has also attracted worldwide attention following collaborations with various international companies such as Vans, Levis, Virgin and Nokia as well as featuring on the Four Rooms television series.
The community came out in force to attend the official unveiling of FWRD. where they were given the opportunity to peruse around the gallery while enjoying a drink and some tunes.
Ben said: "The turn out for the opening was amazing. Everyone said it felt like we were doing something new, which was adding to the community and something that was much needed.
"In our minds we are driving forward the hopes and desires of our generation. We are giving people something that is lacking in Newquay.
"I'm really pleased with the gallery. It is great to have such a great collection of work to show people. It is a great space. Come and have a look around, hang out and have a coffee."
FWRD. also stocks selected publications on art, photography and lifestyle as well as Montana spray paint.
Ben and his wife Georgie are additionally founders of The House of Artists, which is a collective of international artists who supply and create limited edition wall coverings for commercial and private interiors.
FWRD. is open on Saturdays between 10am and 4pm. The gallery is also open by appointment during the week. Telephone 07709240078 or email hello@fwrdprojects.com