Both artist have an interest in abstract painting that employs the use of repetition and the ‘push/pull’ of control and chance. Both are comfortable using underlying grids as a starting point that, during the course of painting, subtly break down to display not only the inherent qualities of paint but also the ‘frailties’ of the human hand.
Annalisa Merrilees paintings are, for her, a deeply personal experience. Her process derives from an interest in the mental limits of the body and the subsequent physical effects as her paintings are delicately painted over a long period of time. Merrilees’s work appears at first to be made mechanically but are actually the product of a careful hand. There is a visible struggle between control and chaos, which comes from Merrilees’ monomaniacal tendencies. Typically, each piece has a set of routines that must be followed and completed in as close to one sitting as possible. The use of a random number generator to allocate colours to the base grid allows the painting to begin its life illogically. By removing herself from this responsibility, it initiates a dialogue and set of problems, which she then responds to. Lately Merrilees’ approach has diverted away from such stark, harsh grids in search of more organic forms and movement. The random and deliberate actions come together to create a sufficient formal balance within the work.
Debbie Mountain is inspired by minimalism, her work is self-referential and attempts to eschew the urge to be driven by ‘emotion’ or represent ‘something’. However, Mountain’s art is one of a joyful exploration of the material qualities of paint and surface. Each painting draws the viewer in to explore the texture and detail contained within. For this exhibition she has swopped her signature ‘paint pyramids’ for something flatter, while, at the same time, retaining a three-dimensional quality through the use of the canvas edges, creating a ‘wrapped parcel’. Each painting unavoidably invites human error as they unfold and, for Mountain, seem to create the feeling of her almost being an observer she paints. The result is often created unintentionally by the materials but chosen intentionally by the artist.
Where possible we will update our listings to notify of cancelled, postponed and rescheduled events, however we STRONGLY ADVISE that you check with the venue/organiser in the first instance for updates.
All information (whether in text or photographs) is supplied in good faith but should not be relied upon as being a statement of representation or fact.GOT AN EVENT TO SHARE? It's free to post your events on What's On Edinburgh, click here to find out more!
Want to be the first to hear about what's happening in Edinburgh? Just hit 'Like' on our Facebook page, join the What's On Scotland Facebook Group and 'Follow' on our Twitter account and you're all set!Structure : Meaning brings together two Scottish printmakers, Benet Reid and Richard Marsden to Upright Gallery in March!
READ MOREStep into the vibrant world of Warhol After Hours at Dovecot Studios! This exclusive event offers a fusion of socialising and art appreciation against the backdrop of Warhol’s groundbreaking works.
READ MOREAn exhibition of drawings by Janice Deary, inspired by Daoist poetry, is taking place at Wasps Patriothall from 30th March.
READ MOREIn this indoor mini-exhibition at Dynamic Earth, take a journey through Scotland's geological past!
READ MOREAn outdoor exhibition of the latest awe-inspiring images taken by the James Webb Space Telescope.
READ MOREThe National Library of Scotland's permanent exhibition provides a unique insight into Scotland’s history, culture and people and its place in the world.
READ MOREThis is an exhibition of short films and pre-production work by 3rd year students at Edinburgh College of Art.
READ MOREEnjoy a visit to Andy Warhol: The Textiles during Dovecot Studios drop-in Family Craft Mornings.
READ MOREJoin Pentland Model Railway Group for their 2nd annual model railway exhibition on 6th & 7th April in St Mary’s Church Hall, Dalmahoy!
READ MORE&Gallery is delighted to host our inaugural open call exhibition, showcasing thirty-eight artist representing a spectrum of disciplines from across the globe!
READ MORE