PAINtings - Paul Kneen

PAINtings - Paul Kneen

13 Apr 2024 - 15 Jun 2024

Peterborough Museum & Art Gallery

PAINtings, revolving around the theme of portraiture, adeptly captures the struggles and anxieties inherent in our day-to-day existence. Each piece stands as a mirror reflecting not only the artist's evolving artistic vision over the last 12 months but also as an exploration of our shared human conditions.

28 - 30 May 2024: Peterborough Museum is becoming Peterborough ZOO-seum and entry fees apply to all visitors on these dates.

PAINtings - Paul Kneen

After the success of his 2021 show Somethings Wrong alongside the Urban Exhibition here at Peterborough Museum and Art Gallery, featuring illustrious artists such as Banksy, My Dog Sighs, Ben Eine, and Damien Hirst, Paul Kneen has returned to the Museum to take over the Art gallery with his latest solo show, PAINtings.

Embark on a transformative journey through the intricate layers of human emotion with PAINtings, a compelling solo exhibition that unveils over 90 original artworks meticulously crafted by Stamford-based artist Paul Kneen.

Spanning a year of dedicated creation, PAINtings delves deep into the complexities of mental health, offering a poignant exploration of the human psyche through a diverse array of abstract portraits. Each piece captures the essence of frustration, distress, and despair, yet beneath the surface lies a glimmer of hope, conveyed through vibrant hues and expressive strokes.

Reflecting on his work, Kneen shares, "While the subject matter may appear sombre, I've created each painting with a sense of vitality, hinting at the resilience of the human spirit. Amidst the tumultuous backdrop of today's world, it's essential to acknowledge the collective struggles we face, both internally and externally."

Presented in a curated sequence, the exhibition offers a chronological narrative of Kneen's artistic evolution over the past year. As you move through the three rooms, you are invited to witness first-hand the evolvement of Kneen's distinctive style, from its experimental stages through to its final evolution.

Breaking away from convention, Kneen's innovative approach transcends traditional canvases, with artworks spanning across a myriad of mediums, including expansive wooden boards, recycled cardboard, and even skateboards. Each surface becomes a canvas for the artist's introspective exploration, adding depth and dimension to the narrative.

PAINtings stands as a testament to the transformative power of art, offering solace and introspection in equal measure.

Photo copyright: Kingsley Singleton

Peterborough Museum open Tue - Sat, 10am - 4pm. Free entry (Excluding special event days)

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