‘Black and Brown’ is a remarkable painting created by the renowned British artist Ben Nicholson. Completed in 1981, this artwork is a beautiful example of Nicholson's distinct style and his...
‘Black and Brown’ is a remarkable painting created by the renowned British artist Ben Nicholson. Completed in 1981, this artwork is a beautiful example of Nicholson's distinct style and his contribution to the modernist movement.
At first glance, "Black and Brown" captivates the viewer with its simplicity and elegant composition. The painting consists of geometric shapes and intersecting lines, meticulously arranged on a flat surface. Nicholson's deliberate use of a limited colour palette enhances the overall impact of the piece.
The dominant colours in "Black and Brown" are, as the title suggests, black and brown. These colours create a sense of depth and dimension, despite the flatness of the composition.
Nicholson's approach to abstraction is evident in "Black and Brown." He reduces the subject matter to its essential elements, stripping away unnecessary details and focusing on the interplay of shapes, lines, and tone. The forms in the painting are carefully balanced, both in terms of their placement and size, resulting in a harmonious and visually pleasing composition.
The use of geometric shapes, particularly squares and rectangles, is a recurring motif in Nicholson's work, and "Black and Brown" is no exception. These shapes are precisely delineated and interconnected, creating a sense of rhythm and structure within the painting. The sharp edges and clean lines contribute to the overall sense of order and balance.
Ben Nicholson New Work, Waddington Galleries - Opened 3rd March 1982 Ben Nicholson From the Studio Pallant House Gallery - Opened 26th June 2021 to 21st October 2021
Publications
Ben Nicholson New Work Catalogue, n.30, 1982 Ben Nicholson: From the Studio, p.92, 2021