Clarendon is delighted to present an exhibition of new work from Darren Baker, a rising star in the art world. Darren Baker: Contemporary Realism” opens on Thursday 1st September after an extraordinary summer for this outstanding 34 year old, who has just completed an official portrait of HM Queen Elizabeth II. Her Majesty sat for the portrait earlier in the year and it will be officially presented as part of the British Legion’s 90th birthday celebrations. Darren will be making a personal appearance in the gallery on Thursday 8th September from 6.30pm – 9.30pm, and this event is expected to attract investors from all over the country.

Swiftly earning him a place amongst the UK’s most renowned contemporary realists, Baker’s original oils have won him numerous awards including The Garrick Prize from Christies, London and hang in private collections including those of the House of Lords, Downing Street and St James’s Palace. His unique status was recently confirmed when he was appointed as official artist to the 2012 Olympic Games. Already official artist to the Professional Footballer’s Association for many years, Baker has produced an impressive portfolio of portraits for sports clubs and personalities including Dame Kelly Holmes, Lewis Hamilton, Jonny Wilkinson and Steven Gerrard, while his non-sporting portraits include HRH Prince Charles and Tony Blair. His portrait of Pope John Paul II was greeted with a personal message of appreciation from the Vatican.