Shared Palette | A Collaboration with Smithson Projects

Branch Arts is delighted to present Shared Palette, a series of exclusive releases from international artists curated in collaboration with Smithson Projects. Together Anna Smithson, we are tapping into our long-standing experience in the arts industry, a shared aesthetic, and a mutual passion to support creativity. 

With a focus on new work produced during artist residencies, Shared Palette will spotlight an artist's practice particularly in periods of development and experimentation. At the same time, Shared Palette offers collectors special insight into the artistic motivation and story behind each work.

We are delighted to offer our shared community of collectors a dynamic programme of remarkable artistic talent. At the heart of Shared Palette is the artists themselves, Anna and Susie's shared belief in their work, and a collective commitment to supportive artist relations.

OFFERING | BY KATE DOLAN

“This series is about kindness. The inspiration came from travelling

through Europe, where I found myself completely drawn into the myths of ancient Greece. At the Acropolis, I saw intricate carvings and figurines that must have taken days to make, simply left as gifts

for the gods. Offerings, freely given. That really stayed with me. The series began with studies & linen pieces, painted in a secret garden in a tiny village in rural France, using motifs of the objects I’d come

across. Just as I imagined it was in ancient Greece, everyone in the village came together and looked out for each other. It was a real community, and something we’ve lost in a lot of places. We’re scrolling, rushing past each other. Some live in complete abundance, others are left with nothing, and it can feel like it’s all take, take, take.

We’re asking our phones for the advice we’d once have called a friend for. There’s something a bit sad in that. I wanted these paintings to hold on to what I found in that village, and in those ancient objects. That’s the thread running through Offering. Each title comes from Greek mythology. Hidden in every painting are quiet stories: taking care of each other, thinking differently, giving freely.

Small offerings, made with nothing wanted in return.”