MILAN.- Cadogan Gallery has announced the opening of IX, a solo exhibition of British artist Richard Zinon's work on view in the Milan premises starting today. On show are a selection of large canvases where more and less incisive brushstrokes are layered on warm-toned backgrounds, creating profoundly dynamic compositions.

Number 9 in numerology is powerful. It represents completion, but no final end. More like the fulfilment of one cycle so that you can prepare to initiate the next one. It is an affirmation of the constant ebb and flow of life.'

Richard's series of works embody a spacious field of compositions. The canvases display an ensemble of both solid and subtle marks, showing movements with powerful brushstrokes, either stretched out in the far or in more concentrated form. The compositions are drawn over warm undertones; the depth in the backgrounds is built up by many layers, creating the base of a lively and detailed structure, while still showing a lightness coming through the depth. There's always a breath of oxygen showing through the paint, creating a tone that does not end under the surface. It is reminiscent of stone and paper, landscapes, linen, aged documents, and deep skies. It is a play between solidity and airiness. A rush of energy is 'set in stone'; set in oil on linen, in Zinons work.

The power of the single energetic movement is celebrated on the canvases. Like a strike of a match, or a fast stroke of ink on paper; coming from a moment of very concentrated energy, Zinon almost tries to let go of the conscious mind while painting. These doubtless notes and strokes in black and umber remind of the energy that we carry within ourselves. There is a lightness in the movements, while with a strong will of expression, Zinon puts an accent on the moment that is the now.

Cadogan is an independent contemporary art gallery with spaces in London and Milan that opened in 1980. For over forty years its mission has been to represent, support and curate the work of a diverse roster of emerging and mid-career artists.

Cadogan Gallery
Richard Zinon
December 12th, 2023 - February 18th, 2024