Hamilton Gallery: Elements

Detail from Gavin Larkin’s ‘Mix and Mingle’

‘Elements’ is a group show currently up at Hamilton Gallery, showcasing new and vibrant artworks by various artists chosen or created in response to the elements as a broad theme. Earth, Air, Fire and Water are directly or loosely referred to by way of subject matter, media, colour or even just ‘feel’.

Gavin Larkin, ‘Red Forest’
Oil on canvas

Art pieces range from the literal representation of the elements, scenes involving land, sky, fire or scenes from after the fire, the ocean or rain. Others more abstractly hint at elemental forces or ideas, and some simply celebrate the colours which could be associated with the four elements.

The title of this show is apt as we move through winter, with our attention being directed towards weather reports, wind and rain predictions and planning activities around these. Fire is an integral part of our daily thinking, either in keeping warm in our homes, or fire simply as heat, warmth, activity, desire and anticipation of sunshine or a change of season.

In Cape Town, we are fortunate to be surrounded by natural beauty and the four elements are visually and physically ubiquitous. These artist’s works are invariably inspired by or include aspects of their surroundings, and this show is an example of how the inner and outer worlds of artists coincide. Without being too obvious, their works can be related to one or more of the elements or at least the essence of what these mean or how they affect us or our daily experience.

Geta Mcmahon, ‘The Valley Below’
Mixed media on canvas

Gavin Larkin is a versatile and dynamic artist whose work is multi-faceted and explorative. His bold, abstract pieces attract the viewer’s eye, hold it and allow for a moment of escape. They command attention, as an experience of strong elements such as searing sun, ice cold rain, gusts of wind, flames rising cause us to stop and focus.

Gavin Larkin, ‘Mix and Mingle’
Greta Mcmahon, ‘Holy Mountain’
Oil on canvas Archival print on Hahnemuhle paper

Another feature artist in the show is Greta Mcmahon. Her large-scale painting stands ahead as you walk into the light infused space. It is immediately impressive and visually arresting. As you look at it further, more colour and textural nuances come to the fore, and the mixed media elements create an impactful sense of depth and substance. This work truly needs to be savoured: each time one views it, one sees something new. The effect is as if one is immersed in all the elements at once. This work is one that it is possible to get lost in.

There are many other works on show with a similar impact, and a selection that are decorative, playful, small-scale, 3D, prints. Prices range from affordable décor pieces to investment pieces for a growing art collection. It is well worth ‘braving the elements’ to come to see these fresh and exciting artworks.