R.E.-discovered: a centenary celebration of over 50 paintings & drawings by

"The critics always seem to be 'discovering' me": Richard Eurich's gently wry reaction to glowing reviews of his 1980 retrospective is as relevant now as it was then. Still hardly a household name, despite being represented in all the major national collections, he was uninfluenced by fashion and remained steadfastly true to his artistic identity.

The First Gallery is proud and delighted to be the opening element in the South's celebrations of Eurich's centenary, being marked across the country. R.E.-discovered is a wide-ranging exhibition, selected by Margery Clarke, who knew and understood Eurich well. Among the land- and sea-scapes, for which he is renowned, are several surprises: a still life displaying traditional oil-painting skills; a tiny, almost abstract, oil of a boat in a storm, reminiscent of Delacroix; a portrait of his dog, unsentimental but full of affection; a sienna ink-drawing of ordinary flat countryside, transformed by his handling of distance; even some touches of humour. Shining through them all are Eurich's acute powers of observation and breathtaking paint-quality.

The late works, including his very last painting (a view from his hospital window afire with autumnal glow) capture profound depths and awareness of mystery which was at the core of his quiet being.

This is a lovely show to be enjoyed in the warm friendliness for which The First Gallery is known. We will open readily by appointment at times other than set hours.

8th - 29th March 2003 N.B. fixed hours only apply for first week Sat 8th - Sun 16th incl. 2 - 7pm, or by appt. Mon 17th - Sat 29th by appointment at any pre-arranged time

Pre-View Friday 7th March 2003 6 - 9 pm Open Morning Sunday 30th March 2003 11am - 2pm

APPLE AND GLASS BOWL 1985 oil on board 18x30cm £1125 WINDBREAK 1988 oil on board 31x36cm £1500	MORNING, THE BEDROOM 1983 oil on board 32x15cm £1200
COWES WEEK 1980 oil on board 30x46cm £1950	GIRL ON THE BEACH 1986oil on board 18x30cm (£1250 tbc)

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