Layers - An Exhibition of Paintings by Ian Carr

Ian Carr's first solo exhibition explores colour, texture, and the passing of time. Employing variations on a theme and explorations in different media and colour combinations, he invites the viewer to share his journey of ideas.

"My starting points are varied - from peeling paint on an old door to graffiti and the Devon landscape. I am interested in layers - peeling back something to discover something afresh. Explorations of colour and texture within a strong framework are a recurring theme.

I love the pleasure of looking. Be it the sea, the land, a weathered building, patterns in the estuary mud, plants climbing up a trellis, or a rusting scaffolding pole, everything is a potential starting point.
My work is primarily entertainment for the eye. Every starting point is rooted in observation - either direct or from memory.
When we look at something we take away different memories, like after-images, the visual imprint giving lasting pleasure.

Recycling plays a big part in my work. I use a glass palette and scrape off unused paint to re-use; cut hair is incorporated into my work along with old newspapers, sawdust, rags, pencil sharpenings and things I haven’t thought of yet (but nothing unmentionable).”

Ian studied at Chester School of Art, Leeds College of Art and Manchester University. Most of his working life has been in art education in various schools and colleges in the UK and Zambia, as well as working as a copywriter, gallery director and mural painter.

He has exhibited widely including the Arnolfini Gallery Bristol, the Walker Art Gallery Liverpool, the Whitworth Art Gallery Manchester, the Roundhouse at Chalk Farm and Leeds City Art Gallery.

www.ian-carr.com

For more information visit http://www.harbourhouse.org.uk/gallery-ICarr12.html