WINTER 2025/2026
I mentioned in my last blog that I would explore the changes in my work as I discover them for myself. I’m not sure that I’m yet able to do that but I’ll try.
The image I included with the autumn blog elicited some unexpected responses, which makes me reluctant to say too much about what inspires the colours I use. I want to leave the responses to my paintings open to the viewers. Let them, let you, decide what it is that you discover. That is what has directed me towards the non-objective rather than realism. That is also why I am showing you a painting I completed thirty-seven years ago. I want you to see the difference between what I did then and what I’m doing now. So I’m including here the painting I showed in my last blog: New Series No 7, along with an older painting, The Farrier, painted in 1988.
The Farrier
New Series 07
I’m proud of my realistic paintings. I believe that some of them are very good. I just want to move beyond the subject in order to discover, and help you to discover, something more.
Let me explain. If I paint a picture of a horse, no matter what colour, the viewer will see a horse. The familiarity of the horse limits the viewer’s imagination. The viewer rarely sees beyond or beneath the subject. But, if I paint an abstract shape (I prefer the term non-objective) the viewer will be free to respond to that shape and the colours of that shape in a thousand ways, if they wish. Not only are they free to respond, they are also free to imagine. Expanding the imagination is one of my aims.
I showed non-objective paintings at my last show in 2022, if you remember. These were more complex and included different forms, as you can see in the image below.
Now my intension is to reduce the complexity. The aim is to use the simplest of forms and let that form resonate.
I hope all that I have said helps you to understand. Please contact me if I haven’t helped and we can discuss it further.
With the inspiration of my son Anthony, I have decided to call the next exhibition COLOUR REMAINS. It will be at the J/M gallery, which is on 230 Portobello Road, London, between the dates 14th and 20th October 2026. I have not yet decided which day I will hold the opening party, but be assured that you are invited.
I find myself drawn more and more to non-objective work, as typified by New Series 07. Imagination!
For me, perhaps, I appreciate objective work that I can relate to; maybe by knowing the subject. Memory?
Thanks for your appreciative comment Roger. Look out for my Spring blog.
All the best for 2026
Andrew
The dates are in the diary! Best wishes to you.
Barbara and Mark Richards
Dear Barbara, The gallery has had to move my exhibition one week later. I now install the show on 14th October and the opening party will probably be on 15th. Look forward to seeing you. All the info will be in my Spring blog. Probably April/May. Look out for it
Inspirational, forward looking, brave and moving closer to the core of creativity, IMO.
There is everything to be found in space and silence.
It was fun to ‘find’ you on this site. You’re not likely to remember me, I was a very young Fine Arts student of yours at Sir Sanford 1973-1974. Those were wonderful years for me and I enjoyed so much of the courses and teachers back then. You had our class to your home on King St one evening , for cocktails.
I’m just pleased to see you continue in the art world, in such interesting ways.
I did some travelling, ended up back in Peterborough teaching Drama at high school, acting in local theatres and directing. Newly married a few months ago, it’s a full and busy life.
It was nice to read about you here. I always enjoyed your Art History classes.
Thank you for getting in touch Patricia. I think I do remember you. Send me a photo of yourself in 1973/74, that will help my memory. Congratulations on your marriage. Please keep in touch. It’s great to hear from old students. My email address is alaarons@gmail.com I prefer communications by email.
Best wishes,
Andrew