"Okada's Well" Painting

Painter. Born 1986. Based in Manchester.

Statement -

The work concerns itself with the world, the human species and the evolution of both. Past, present and potential future conditions are all acknowledged, yet seem to exist simultaneously, as if rapid development has been captured in motion. Conflict is discussed at length within the work, highlighting cultural and societal differences and questioning the borders established as a consequence.

Boundaries are illustrated through the format of irregular shaped canvas, drawing attention to the negative space around the canvas, secondly through the differing zones of content within the painted composition. Technically the ingredients of the painting are given voice through the use of controlled or naturalistic gesture, paints of varying viscosity are layered while bold colours pronounce themselves against a muted palate.

A wide array of imagery is referenced and reinterpreted to convey our surroundings. Pattern, architecture, geography, graphic design, graffiti are all assembled upon the canvas, whilst anatomical forms are introduced to suggest human footprint in amongst an environment of rapid change. The paintings intend to concurrently evoke nostalgia for the past, cause us to consider the present state of things and provoke apprehension for the future.