MA Summer Show
Reflections from Discussions with Two Mentors
Ringing, oil on canvas, 150✖️100cm✖️2, 2024, Exhibition view of Ma Summer Show
Pause, oil on canvas, 60✖️80cm, 2024, Exhibition view of Ma Summer Show
Reflections from Discussions with Two Mentors
Refining Artistic Practice: Insights from Andrew Grassie
During the Unit 3 MA Show and group critiques at Copeland Gallery, I engaged in discussions with Andrew Grassie that proved instrumental in refining my approach to color, texture, and compositional clarity. At Copeland Gallery, Grassie suggested experimenting with contrasting color schemes and simplifying the use of textures to avoid excessive complexity. He encouraged me to draw inspiration from historical paintings, extracting decorative elements and reinterpreting them through a modern lens. For instance, he proposed incorporating motifs from 18th-century artworks, reshaping them in a way that bridges tradition and contemporary dialogue. This guidance inspired a reevaluation of my Unit 3 research focus.
Grassie’s critique of my work Ringing 2 during Unit 3 emphasized his appreciation for my use of masking techniques and geometric flat shapes, which he observed gave the painting a modern and dynamic visual appeal. He underscored the importance of simplification and clarity in both color and composition, suggesting that such adjustments could enhance the overall legibility and impact of the work. At the same time, he encouraged me to incorporate subtle decorative elements, carefully considering where texture might be added to enrich the surface. Grassie reiterated the value of precise edges and geometric forms, recommending tools like masking tape to create cleaner patterns and minimize rough details.
Following these conversations, I critically reflected on my contributions to the Unit 3 MA Show and formulated new creative objectives. For instance, I resolved to establish clear steps before beginning each painting, defining goals for every stage to ensure a systematic and intentional process. To achieve greater visual clarity and impact, I plan to simplify the palette, reduce excessive textures, and adopt consistent tonal contrasts to enhance depth. Additionally, I aim to incorporate small decorative details, such as subtle patterns or textures in the background or clothing, to elevate the richness and visual interest of my work.
During the Unit 3 MA Show, I sought feedback from Gavin Edmonds, expressing concern about the limited progress in my compositions. He encouraged me to experiment with layering techniques, drawing inspiration from Jackson Pollock’s action painting. Specifically, he suggested working on a large canvas, identifying compelling sections to crop and frame, and then continuing to build on those areas.
Edmonds also recommended a hands-on approach to sketching by printing out images of artworks by historical masters and drawing directly on these prints with oil pastels and markers. This method, he argued, could yield more effective results compared to my usual digital drafting process using Procreate on the iPad. He further urged me to explore diverse materials and mediums, such as printmaking, to broaden my artistic vocabulary.
Inspired by Edmonds’ advice, I adopted his proposed methods following the Unit 3 MA Show. By directly sketching and reworking printed reproductions of historical paintings, I began to deconstruct figures and compositions, experimenting with oil pastels and markers to explore new visual languages. This process deepened my understanding of how traditional imagery can be reinterpreted within a modern context. For example, studying Picasso’s Las Meninas series helped me appreciate his innovative deconstruction of classical works and inspired me to engage in similar reinterpretations.
Under Edmonds’ guidance, I also ventured into woodblock printmaking, which enriched my comprehension of layering techniques and added a tactile dimension to my practice. I further diversified my media, incorporating materials such as inks, spray paint, oil pastels, oil paints, and acrylics to achieve greater depth and variation in visual texture.
Expanding Creative Horizons: Feedback from Gavin Edmonds
Moving Forward
The critiques from Andrew Grassie and Gavin Edmonds have significantly influenced my creative approach, prompting me to emphasize both clarity and experimentation in my work. By integrating their insights—whether through simplification of composition, the incorporation of decorative details, or the exploration of new techniques and media—I aim to refine my artistic process and create works that resonate more deeply with contemporary visual and conceptual concerns. Their feedback has underscored the importance of intentionality and adaptability, shaping my ongoing journey of artistic exploration and critical inquiry.