Paul Robinson - Artist's Statement

A process of non-sequential layering creates the paintings. This layering continues until all components are woven seamlessly together; loose painterly marks are woven between sharp crisp shapes, creating a marriage of something old and new. A transformation occurs turning something that is pristine and uniform, into something decaying yet inspiring and playful.

The following layers are used:

1. Repetitive graphic patterns are photographically sourced, from often-imperfect decorative tiles; these are then mathematically recreated on a computer. The structure of the repetitive pattern is then transferred onto the canvas.

2. Thin layers of paint are slowly built up. Some layers may cover the whole surface of the canvas; where as other layers may be washed, dripped or poured. Others marks are the result of objects such as tea bags or laced curtains being placed on the canvas then flooding the objects with paint.

3. Photographs of scenic images are broken down to black and white halftones in Photoshop. Representations of these are then copied onto the canvas.

Decay:

Decay is a natural cycle; it transforms something new yet uniform into something old and irregular. The method of breaking down the subject and exposing its prime materials occurs relentlessly and can continue until decomposition. We see this process happen seasonally with the falling of the leaves.

As a species we struggle to accept this natural decaying process and often find ourselves 'stepping in' with man made materials to delay the inevitable. Our natural instinct is survival and the preservation of ones life and mind. The treatment of ones possessions is an extension of this, seasonally being retouched or 'spring cleaned' and made new again.