STRATA: Nick Grindrod

About

Smithson Gallery presents STRATA, a solo exhibition by the Sheffield-based contemporary painter Nick Grindrod (b.1974), sponsored by Campari. Represented by Smithson Gallery, and exhibiting internationally, Grindrod’s practice and reputation has gone from strength to strength, quickly gaining a loyal crowd of growing collectors and enthusiasts, and boasting multiple sell out collections and print releases. Recent accolades include a collaboration for Coast fashion, and a private commission for The Londoner Hotel Macau, China. His works are also housed by the Soho House collection, numerous private collections, and have been listed at several reputable auctions. 

The exhibition will feature a brand-new body of abstract paintings, which celebrate Grindrod’s emotive use of vibrant colour, and remarkable depth of texture. Drawing from the rich industrial past of his hometown Sheffield, at the heart of these works is a love for the architectural form, and the way in which buildings age and transform. Strata, meaning layers of material naturally or artificially formed over time, echoes the emergent, processual qualities of his works. He attends to his paintings as if he is conducting an archaeological investigation, skilfully adding and removing layer-upon-layer to reveal stories of the past. The finished pieces sing with Grindrod’s excitement and passion for creating, which subsequently lifts and enriches the spirits of his collectors. 

Aesthetically the works pertain to the styles of geometric abstraction, reminiscent of the likes of Frank Stella and Kenneth Noland. However, there is a playful informality to them, and drawing on influences including John Hoyland and Lee Krasner, forms become undone, and painterly marks and abrasions interrupt the edges. Modern stylistic references include Harland Miller and Sarah Morris.

Grindrod’s sought-after paintings will be presented at varying scales across plywood and canvas. There will also be a small number of his rarer works on paper, including original drawings. Exclusive limited-edition exhibition prints and posters will also be available for purchase during the show.