The colour orange has a complex, sometimes even confusing, history that can often be overlooked. Its presence in humanity’s artistic record is believed to have first appeared in the ruins of Ancient Egyptian tombs — impressive structures that are globally recognised today for their detailed decoration and preservation of the richest individuals in Ancient Egyptian… Continue reading The history of orange
If you have ever uttered phrases such as “I lack creativity” or “I just can’t draw”, it is time to uncover a truth: creativity is not an innate talent bestowed upon a select few. It is subjective. Fewer than half of people on average (39% in 2012 and 41% in 2016) would describe themselves as… Continue reading Producing art as a non-creative — eight easy approaches for you to try
The colour red has had a wide variety of meanings and purposes throughout human history. The earliest use of red in the archaeological record comes from cave paintings drawn over thirty thousand years ago. Early humans used a naturally occurring pigment made of a mix of iron oxide and clay, now known as red ochre,… Continue reading The history of red
Inspiration often comes from unexpected places. For Rachel Deacon, it was a home extension that sent her artistic practice in an entirely new direction. When the building work was complete, Rachel was left with a large blank wall that demanded a statement painting. She searched for the right abstract work but found nothing that felt… Continue reading Rachel Deacon at the Catto Gallery
Katabasis — “a going down” — etymology: καταβαίνειν, Greek, “to descend”, from “κατα”, down, and “βαίνω”, I go. This essay deals with the question of how classical literary elements and mythology can be utilised in a way which enhances the critical and provocative in poetry which seeks to cut ties with tradition, in what at… Continue reading Classical katabasis in Allen Ginsberg’s Howl
