Inspired by minimalism, this artist’s work is a reference to itself, not seeking to express emotion or representation. It does not allude to anything, except the joyful exploration of the materialism of paint. The luxury of modern day, toxic free, non-flammable, easy to use paint squeezed from a tube. Its accessibility celebrates the democratisation of the minimalist movement. Each colour performs on its own. It has its own texture, viscosity, transparency and reflective and tactile qualities, catching light and casting shadow.
The artist uses simple forms and creates “paint pyramids” using everyday items; a paint scraper, cake icer and palette knife. The sculptural quality of the “paint pyramids” blurs the boundaries between 2 and 3 dimensions, creating a sense of movement, inviting the paint to leap from its surface. The work departs from minimalism in the rejection of mechanisation of art, instead embracing the flaws of hand painting. The artist invites chance and tolerates mistakes as her role is merely to “curate” the paint- the paint is choosing the final image as the artist watches on.
Its sumptuous, repetitive nature has a meditative effect on the viewer. Nothing needs to be explained or understood, just experienced. It is what you see.
- Foregone Cognitions by Debbie Mountain - 15th December 2019