Merlin James
dal 4/6/2013 al 9/8/2013
Segnalato da
4/6/2013
Merlin James
Parasol Unit, London
A selection of works ranging from the early 1980s through to the present day. James' somewhat enigmatic paintings address a vast and eclectic range of subject matter and richly metaphoric imagery, including land- and sea-scapes, figures, architecture, interiors and erotic scenes.
Parasol unit foundation for contemporary art is delighted to present the work of painter
Merlin James from 6 June to 10 August 2013. The exhibition will focus on a selection of
works ranging from the start of James’ career (the early 1980s) through to the present
day. This will be the artist’s first major solo exhibition in a London institution.
James’ somewhat enigmatic paintings address a vast and eclectic range of subject matter
and richly metaphoric imagery, including land- and sea-scapes, figures, architecture,
interiors and erotic scenes. What they frequently have in common is their modest scale,
highly-considered composition and a seeming effortlessness of execution which belies
their complexity. As particular and individual in their use of colour as they are distinctive
in composition, James' works interrogate traditional approaches to painting, often actively
integrating the physicality of the canvas and stretcher into the composition, as well as
incorporating dust, glue or debris into the surface. Heightening a sense of intentionality, or
purpose, James at times cuts holes in, or adds three-dimensional objects to, the work.
James’ work often seems to comment on or make reference to modernist painting, and
much that has been written about his work concentrates on his sources in art. But
although he does draw on the 'golden age' of modern painting, and paintings by lesser
known modern artists, to dwell excessively on James' sources would be to miss
altogether the intensity of the viewing experience and the ensuing intellectual challenges
his work offers.
Born in Cardiff, Wales, in 1960, Merlin James studied in London at the Central School of
Art and the Royal College of Art. He currently lives and works in Glasgow, Scotland.
Image: Harbour, 2011, Acrylic on polyester, wood frame, 38 x 74 cm, Courtesy of the artist and Sikkema Jenkins & Co., New York © Merlin James
Press contact
Gemma Colgan - Marketing & Communications Manager on 020 7490 7373, at gemma@parasol-unit.org
Preview: 5 June 2013, 6.30 – 9 p.m.
Parasol unit foundation for contemporary art
14 Wharf Road, London, N1 7RW
Hours:
Tuesday–Saturday 10–6pm; Sunday 12–5pm; Monday by appointment only
closed 11 August - 17 September 2013.
Admission is free