Inspired by port

ALTHOUGH better known for its urban sprawl, Newhaven artist Keith Clements has captured a more romantic vision of the town in his evocative paintings.

The artist, who has lived in Newhaven for 21 years, first began to explore and appreciate the Ouse Valley as a young art student in 1947.

As he made drawings of its buildings and Downland for his exam portfolio it developed into a genuine labour of love.

Years later he became reacquainted with the town when his wife began working there. Keith, 71, said: 'I wandered around Newhaven. I always liked the look of it and felt it had a wonderful position.'

In 1981 the couple moved to the town. Keith said: 'Living in Newhaven gave me the added luxury of subject matter on my doorstep, enabling me regularly and easily to refresh my memory and see it in different lights, varieties of weather and changing seasons.'

Keith's atmospheric painting of Newhaven at night, showing the harbour area viewed from the Fort, has echoes of Turner's canvases of the Thames.

Walking

Keith said: 'Around the harbour it is picturesque. The town centre is a bit sad, but by the bridge and over towards Denton Island there are interesting features. Looking at Newhaven from Seaford beach it looks wonderful.'

The area was a source of constant inspiration, he added. 'I spend quite a lot of time outside, walking around, looking for subjects. I love this valley from Lewes down to Newhaven.'

Prior top his retirement in 1988 Keith taught art history at the University of Brighton.

An exhibition of his work, Newhaven and the Ouse Valley, can be seen at the Thebes Gallery, Church Twitten, Lewes, until June 30. For further information call 01273 484214.