SALONVERT @ Embassy, Until 30 Jan

‘Eclectic’ is an apt description of SALONVERT at the Embassy. Like all members shows, it offers an array of medium and messages. Oil paintings, drawings, textiles, prints, sculptures and video works are all in evidence, and the hang, as the title suggests, draws inspiration from the Paris Salon. A tremendous number of disparate works cover the walls of the small gallery space, vying for the viewer’s attention. It is difficult to assess an exhibition such as this because it offers infinite variety, not just in terms of technique and subject matter, but also quality.

One of the more unusual works on display is Self Portrait Reflected in Toilet Bowl by James Metcalfe. Essentially, it is a beautifully drawn picture of Metcalfe taking a slash. Who says men can’t multitask? Fortunately, this work doesn’t set the tone for the rest of the show, though humour is a recurring theme. Holly Clement’s work is amusing, depicting a woman wearing glasses alongside the phrases ‘Oh my God you wear glasses’ and ‘Yes I have really bad foresight’.

Evelyn Morrison’s Random Binary Pattern, a cross stitch rendering of a barcode, provides a wonderful contrast of a rustic medium and modern subject. A representation of cutting edge technology granny would be comfortable with!

From witty to thought provoking, SALONVERT is undoubtedly worth a look. Though not groundbreaking, there’s something for everyone.