Pigment and Light

About

Artists based at Phoenix Brighton explore the continuum of painting in its various forms, from the traditional materials of canvas and paint to luminous installations of pigment and light. Over the years, Andrew Gifford's work has travelled along several parallel streams, seemingly very different but connected through the exploration of light. His series of luminous cityscapes of Brighton Palace Pier at night serve as a springboard for an installation of kinetic light works in the large gallery. These constructions of pure pigment, Perspex, neon and tungsten lights are distillations of the colour harmonies found in the figurative paintings. They cast a subtle and pure glow within the gallery space, and at the end of the day they radiate out into the dark winter night. June Frickleton creates sumptuous abstract paintings that deal with pure colour and form. They have a richness and intensity that is heightened by the use of a reduced palette. Working on the floor, she builds up thin layers of colour through an extended process which invites chance and serendipitous discovery. Unsuccessful layers are washed away and reapplied, with the final image representing several weeks of development. Based in a studio on the top floor of the Phoenix building, Julian Vilarrubi has access to stunning views of the city and glimpses of the downs which enfold Brighton. A series of new, large-scale oil paintings focuses on the precious green space running from The Level to the remarkable structure of St. Peter's Church. Viewed from various vantage points, the trees and sweeping vistas, as well as more mundane details, provide stimulus for his meditations on landscape and memory. Set to be a beautiful and diverse exhibition from Phoenix Brighton artists.