Visible Traces offered an alternative showing of works by Ian Stephenson (1934-2000) in the context of a select group show.
Stephenson was a pioneering English abstract artist who characteristically splattered colours in layers towards obliteration.
His work featured in Antonioni’s film Blow Up (1966), an iconic vision of London in the swinging sixties.
The film’s aura of elegance and cool was transferred onto the artist and made him fashionable, but obscured the serious intent behind his lifelong investigation into visual density.
“Countless happenings in time present as one simultaneous expression. Emptiness filled with matter. Solids filled with space.” Andrew Forge (The Independent)
Curators Julian Page and Joanna Bryant sought to provide new insights into this underrated artist, by contextualising his work with that of three emerging artists. A series of his prints are shown alongside sculptures by Jayne Wilton-
paintings by Robinson/McMahon-
and photographs by Elizabeth Hayley–
Visible Traces draws attention to Stephenson’s work in a new, contemporary context
and suggests links between these diverse artists
and one of the pioneers of British 60’s abstract art.
Julian Page and Joanna Bryant are independent art curators and dealers, supporting emerging and established contemporary artists and working together to hold exhibitions that reveal surprising dialogues through the process of collaboration.
All Photographs Courtesy of David X Green
@davidxgreen www.davidxgreen.com
