poppy o’brien
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contact:
poppyobrienstudio@gmail.com
Paintings unfold in series and are united by a meticulous painting process. Always beginning from the edge, tape and spray paint are used to construct multi-layered compositions. Appearing deceptively simple at first, closer inspection of the painted surface reveals a complex interplay of subtle gradients, low contrasts and gloss mediums. Repetitive, geometric motifs provide a sense of rhythm and movement. Interplay between layers alludes to the influence of space and architecture.
This painterly language is also extended into sculpture where aluminium sheets are cut and folded to create quasi-architectural forms. Geometric metal planes reflect and absorb their surroundings echoing the materiality and luminosity of the urban landscape. Interaction is key to the works, with new perspectives and aspects activated by the movement of viewers and the shifting of natural light.
Reflecting on the spectacle of London’s built environment it is a place where we can witness the intertwining of light, material and form. Through art, I aim to render such intangible encounters material and provide viewers with a renewed encounter with the constantly evolving spaces that surround us.
CV
Eduction
2024
MA Fine Art, Chelsea College of Arts, University of the Arts London, UK
2023
BA Fine Art, University for the Creative Arts, Canterbury, UK
Selected Group Exhbitions
2019
Human Connection, Online
2021
Limited Infinity, The Brewery Tap, Folkestone
Starting Points, The Brewery Tap, Folkestone
2023
ArtGIG, The Brewery Tap, Folkestone
The Graduate Show, UCA Canterbury
Through the Looking Glass, Mall Galleries, London
Departure Lounge, ALG17, UAL Chelsea, London
Playground, M P Birla Millennium Gallery, London
The Little Show, The Cookhouse, UAL Chelsea, London
Annual Open, Southwark Park Gallery, London
Three Rooms, The Cookhouse, UAL Chelsea, London
2024
Third Space, The Cookhouse, UAL Chelsea, London & AVA Academy,Ljubljana, Slovenia
Everything Must Go, RCA X UAL, The Cookhouse, UAL Chelsea, London
Host, St Saviours Church, Pimlico, London
A Night For, The Cookhouse, UAL Chelsea, London
The Cost of Opportunity, The Cookhouse, UAL Chelsea, London
MA Graduate Show, UAL Chelsea, London
Scholarships/Awards
2024
The Sir Frank Bowling Scholarship, MA Fine Art, Chelsea College of Arts, University for the Arts London
Experience
2023
Graduate Lecturer, UCA Canterbury
Art Archivist, Kent County Council
2022
Art Workshop Leader, St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Essex