Rory Watson

Works
Overview
Rory Watson

Rory Watson takes an image and through an economy of form, questions how much is required to convey the subject and activate the imagination, whilst challenging a vulnerability in a theatre of colour blindness.

"My process possesses certain linear tendencies. Often the elements of my previous works influence the next, be it a detailed drawing to a small painting, or a small sketch to a giant canvas. Through alternating between painting and drawing, a certain dialogue has been created across the different disciplines I use. Threads of paint mimic a pencil line, smudged gestures relate to the physicality of working with charcoal, and scrubbing turpentine over dried oil paint as if it’s an eraser, are just a few recent examples.

I often revisit works, layering over and masking certain elements I wasn’t too fond of, and adding texture to areas previously flat and blended. I enjoy the contrast of different marks, and what they can bring to an artwork"

Biography
Rory Watson

Operating in the space between figuration and abstraction, licks of oil paint and threads of colour energetically combine, only to appear frozen in a calm stillness. Tranquility juxtaposes anxiety as the canvas becomes an open door, each brush stroke an impulsive recording of humanity and self discovery.

 

"As for my practice, I have moved through many mediums and art forms: from organising an augmented reality gallery event and building holographic installations, to creating large scale charcoal drawings and more recently, oil paintings. University became a playground for me; I wanted to try everything. This outlook on creative disciplines has become a fundamental aspect of my practice. Currently I would consider myself a painter, but as my work develops, the mediums in which I work with adapt. For example, my paintings are becoming more sculptural and I wouldn't be surprised if new processes and materials find their way into my studio in the future. I suppose one of the only constants in my work has been people, be it through portraiture or the inclusion of human interaction, our image and emotional responses have always found themselves present in my work."

 

Since graduating from Central Saint Martins in 2019, Rory became one of the 2020 resident artists at The Muse Gallery, and has exhibited across London. He now works from his studio in Hackney following a residency with Art Inspirations and Aspirations (AIA).

Events
Art Fairs