Ignited gunpowder work by UHI Inverness art lecturer rewarded with full membership at prestigious British art society
An Inverness lecturer and artist was elected as full member of the full member into the prestigious London-based Society of Graphic Artist.
Artist Frank To, whose ignited gunpowder drawings sparked interest in royal art academies and exhibitions in the UK and internationally, is one out of only four Scottish artists to hold the position in recognition of outstanding skills in the discipline of drawing nationally in the UK.
Mr To was formerly an associate member of the society after being selected for two years in their exhibition, however after four years, and with approval of the council you can be elected as full member which entitles you to have SGFA after your name.
Commenting on his new appointment into the Society of Graphic Fine Art, Mr To said: “It is both an honour and humbling to be fully elected as member to the Society of Graphic Fine Art.
“The society took note of my drawing works during the COVID-19 pandemic which I was continuously making during the several lockdowns and did really well, unlike some of my peers who were complacent.
“The society have been impressed with me pushing forward in the discipline of drawing despite whatever obstacle I may experience.”
Society of Graphic Fine Art vice-president Lynda Clark said: “Frank’s totally original and demanding method of producing artwork may seem an unlikely fit for a Drawing Society, which was established in 1919.
“The Society of Graphic Fine Art is the only national society based in the UK which is dedicated exclusively to drawing. It exists to promote and exhibit original works of high quality in colour or black and white.
“This includes traditional and contemporary media. The emphasis is on excellence in drawing and draughtsmanship, demonstrated by hand.
“We are proud to announce that he has recently been awarded full membership of the SGFA. His inspirational drawings with gunpowder are both exciting and expressive.”
