This July, The Paragon Gallery presents British Masters, an exceptional exhibition that celebrates the enduring power and intimacy of work by some of the most influential figures in 20th century British art.
Forged in an era of abrupt technological change, global conflict and unprecedented social upheaval, Modern British art represented a fierce determination to expand the language of visual art into a brave new world. This innovation was particularly visible through the practice of printmaking, which allowed artists to explore creative possibilities not available in any other medium. Bringing together a wide variety of original prints made using a range of techniques, this exhibition traces the development of some of Britain’s most acclaimed artists through their engagement with landscape, abstraction and the human figure.
William Scott, Green Predominating, 1976 Unsigned Lithograph
The exhibition will feature original pieces by Henry Moore, Elisabeth Frink, L. S. Lowry, Eric Ravilious, Julian Trevelyan, Mary Fedden, Sir Terry Frost, John Piper, Graham Sutherland and David Hockney, among others. These superlative artworks offer a keen insight into one of the most exciting periods in Britain’s artistic history, when painters, sculptors and printmakers reconfigured our visual lexicon and stood at the vanguard of the international avant garde.
Julian Trevelyan, Richmond Park, 1969-1970 Signed Etching and Aquatint
From Moore’s powerful exploration of form through the etching needle and Frink’s brilliant draughtsmanship with lithographic crayon, to the lyrical Englishness of Ravilious and the joyous sunlit compositions of Terry Frost, these works reveal the immediacy and inventiveness of the Modern eye. The distinct visual languages of these artists continue to resonate with contemporary audiences and to inspire makers in the 21st century.
David Hockney, Old Rinkrank Threatens the Princess, 1969 Unsigned Etching and Aquatint
British Masters celebrates a rich visual narrative and presents a rare opportunity to experience a carefully curated array of works by some of Britain’s most celebrated artists. The exhibition will continue until Saturday 1st August.
John Piper, Fawley Bottom, 1988 Signed Screenprint