This exhibition, currently on at the Royal Academy, introduced me to Milton Avery, an artist I was unfamiliar with. He apparently influenced the Abstract Expressionists, particularly Rothko so I was keen to learn more. I did find it a bit of struggle at times but focussed looking always brings rewards: his physical manipulation of paint […]
Artists
Roni Horn at La Bourse de Commerce in Paris
Having some work in a show in Paris was the main reason for my recent visit. I never go anywhere, however, without seeing some art and this time introduced a friend to the wonders of la Bourse de Commerce. The building is so uplifting , even without the art inside. This time I was delighted […]
The Hop, outdoor sculpture on the South Bank
I love coming across outdoor art when least expecting to and this piece, The Hop, by Jyll Bradley was no exception. Picking hops in Kent was a seasonal agricultural activity, a summer holiday for working class families until the early 1960s. It was hard physical work but far from the dirt of London and somewhere […]
Raphael at the National Gallery
Revisiting the Raphael exhibition at the National Gallery confirmed my admiration of his work, especially the portraits, mainly displayed in the final room. I find Raphael somewhat intimidating – he’s so perfect and revered – but the painting of his friend Baldassare Castiglione is winningly affectionate and engaging. Those blue eyes are incredible. Raphael’s skill […]
Cornelia Parker at Tate Britain. Post 2 of 2
So, part two of the Cornelia Parker show at Tate Britain begins with another installation: Perpetual Canon. Parker was invited to create a piece for a circular space and thought of music. This evolved into a lack of sound, a “mute marching band, frozen breathlessly in limbo”. While the brass instruments are squashed, their shadows […]
Cornelia Parker at Tate Britain. Post 1 of 2
I’ve been a big fan of Cornelia Parker from the beginning of her career and this show at Tate Britain is a treat. Parker explores connections between objects and experiences, offering commentary on our world. She has extraordinary curiosity allied with humour and pathos. Her art is often very beautiful and skilfully produced, something I […]