Original artwork description:

“Lemmings” is an acrylic and oil painting 80cms H x 60cms W x 2.5cms D on exhibition quality canvas. The painting is built in layers over a lightly primed canvas. I work directly over the canvas using brushes, knives, cloths and squeegees to manage layers of acrylic and oil paint. It is a continuous process of ‘correction’. I erase and rub away surfaces to reveal what is hidden. The boundaries of what can be managed in a painting present a constant challenge to me and through a process of layering, cancellation and improvisation my intention is always to test such boundaries.
This painting takes a more abstract, objective and empirical direction than earlier works. Initial inspiration begins with a thought about humanity’s association with lemmings. Lemmings have become the subject of a widely popular misconception that they are driven to commit mass suicide when they migrate by jumping off cliffs. The painting refers to the tendency of human society towards collective stupidity and self-destruction, like the stereotype of lemmings running mindlessly off a cliff edge. It functions as a critique of environmental abuse, populist politics, the naïveté of youth, religious cults and mob mentality in general. These are the ‘rigs of our time’ ie: to manipulate or control usually by deceptive or dishonest means. The painting finds its own direction and plays with the notion of order and chaos. There were to be some words used in the image, however, this idea was not possible. There was no accommodation. The painting is signed on the back, but can be signed on the front at request.
The painting is shipped in a robust custom made cardboard crate (same as those used to transport large screens). The painting is bubble wrapped to protect the canvas. Further wrapping is made with corrugated card. A wooden frame is placed inside the cardboard crate to preserve the structural strength of the packaging. Each painting is insured to its sale value. Shipping costs within the U.K. take into consideration weight and insurance. U.K. shipping costs for this artwork are £75

Materials used:

Acrylic and oil on canvas

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