The cultural quarter of Kendal is in the frame again with a show of modern marine art.

But wait. Don't be lulled into thinking ocean-going vessels or fishing boats moored in sleepy harbours.

On show at Peter Blaskett's Signature Gallery, at 16 Kirkland, the Mary Jane Flower exhibition is firmly anchored in the modern.

Within Mary Jane's abstract images you picture charts and maps, the wake of boats, the disorientation of sailing, work bordering on textile, many painted on calico, denim and cotton, with repeat motifs popping up as landmasses.

Headlands reflected in calm waters of a sheltered inlet to violent passages with barely discernible masts jutting out above mountainous waves.

"It is all in there. From contemplation of the sea to hanging on for dear life in a raging storm," observes Peter.

Mary Jane was born in Cheshire in 1978 and went to Northwich College of Art and Liverpool's John Moores University graduating with a BA hons in fine art.

Her early influences were the likes of Bauhaus.

More recently, her love of sailing and the sea has been a source of inspiration. Not only does she race classic yachts but she's cruised as far as the Canaries in square riggers.

Looking ahead, Peter is pushing his own boat out and making adjustments to his upstairs exhibition space - knocking down a wall allowing a greater assortment of artwork, sculpture, cards and furniture, there's plenty on Signature's horizon for 2003.

Even now, Barrow sculptor Martin Copley figures, plus the diverse work of Kendal Green Door artist Kate Bentley and landscape and street scenes from Kendal painter Mike Wilson make Signature the place to be.

In March, Peter launches an image and word collaboration between Barrow painter Mike Rollins and published Grange-over-Sands poet Gary Boswell.

And his Preston Patrick Hall space a partnership between art lovers Helen and Henry Armitage will be the focus of selected shows including art society exhibitions. So far Sefton Guild and Lancaster Artists Network have confirmed.

It would be fair to say the enthusiastic Mr Blaskett is riding the crest of a wave: "The final project of the year is the opening of a further gallery, unique to the area and very specialised. Watch this space!"

Modern Marine Art and Other Work by Mary Jane Flower runs until January 30.

Signature is open Monday to Friday 10.30am-2pm, 3pm-7pm, except Thursday 10.30am-1.30pm. Saturday is 10.30am-1.30pm, 3.30pm-7pm.

For further details contact 01539-730260.

January 16, 2003 09:30