Too Much

'Too Much' is an exhibition of new works chronicling the complex, systematic and reflective practice of Richard Blackwell. Intersecting geometric abstraction, painting, printmaking, sculpture and robotic automation Blackwell’s latest solid surface and enamel paintings represent the beginning of the next chapter of a his art career.

Conceived via a fusion of traditional drawing practices and parametric architectural design principles and created using techniques similar to those of intaglio printmaking processes, these intricately machine carved and spray painted panels have been realised in the materials of present-day furniture design and automotive body work. This complex merging of influences means these works, which sit at the juncture of image and object, are a direct reflection of contemporary technological cognition.

Guided by the design theories of optical art these exquisite abstract artworks have colour contrasts hand spray painted into the grooves of his carved line work. This paint application playfully references community practices like graffiti and sign writing, whilst also creating shifting colour ways as the viewer moves past them.

Complementing these works are a series of sculptural installations and cyanotype prints displayed on tables designed, manufactured or salvaged by the artist, in collaboration with fellow artists and technicians.

As this exhibition is classed as a 'proto show' it’s design is intentionally temporary and modular in nature, representing a checkpoint in the constantly evolving processes that constitutes Blackwell’s reflective practice, research methods and never ending quest to document the rise of technology alongside the complexity and fragility of human experience.