Ian Davenport
A series of large etchings, made with Ian Davenport's (b.1966) signature compositions of flowing lines cascading down into rich pools of colour, are abstract interpretations of Spring, Summer and Winter. Davenport explores the dynamic sequences of colour that have been applied vertically, so that the printed marks swirl and coalesce at the base of the images. These are shown together with monoprints composed of colours that reflect the phases of daylight. Each print, named after the hours of the day, has a corresponding ghost print. The ghost print, which is made from the residual ink left on the plate, features softer and subtler colours. Davenport is investigating the dynamic interaction of colour, fading and changing between full and half-light.
"On a number of occasions over the years I have found things that have happened in the print studio that were completely unpredictable. For example when printing my etchings, there is a 'ghost image' that occurs within the technical process. I asked if the print studio could print it up, and in fact it looks really beautiful. It has a very different, softer quality which was very unexpected. It's one of the things that intrigues me about making art, never quite knowing what is going to work, and what isn't. It's why I want to keep on making things." Ian Davenport
Experimentation, improvisation and chance continue to be vital elements of Davenport's creative process.
Film
Film: Ian Davenport in his studio
Printing at Thumbprint Editions, London
