John Hoyland 1934-2011

JOHN HOYLAND

 

After studding art at the Royal Academy Schools, Hoyland left to America in the 60s where he became great friends with Mark Rothko, Robert Motherwell and Barnett Newman. In 1964 he had his first show in London at Marlborough gallery and in 1967 at Whitechapel Gallery. At this time his works were characterised by simple shapes, high-key colour and a flat picture surface.

 

Over the following decades distinct artistic personalities emerged. His paintings became more textured, colourful, with both excess and control, striving to provide a sense of wonder in the viewer.

 

“Paintings are a seduction, one develops a relationship with these inanimate objects which becomes a bond like a living person, a mirror, a realm of elusive power.”