Pattern and Portrait: Spring Exhibition 2023

The intern says: The two works exhibited in 2023 approach portraiture through markedly different methods. Claire was constructed slowly over many weeks from paint swatches, map fragments and wallpaper, while Liv was painted rapidly during a forty-minute Portrait and Life Workgroup session.

Despite that contrast, both depend on selection, colour and economy. Claire builds likeness incrementally from hundreds of separate fragments; Liv relies on broad brushwork and relatively few marks. In each, the support and materials remain visibly present rather than being disguised, becoming part of the portrait's design.

Claire, by Stephen Clively, collage - paint swatches, map fragments and wallpaper, 59.5 cm by 42 cm, 2023. This artwork was awarded "Best Portrait or Figure" at the 2023 ASOC Spring Exhibition.

The intern says: Claire constructs the sitter from hundreds of fragments whose original identities remain visible within the portrait. Paint swatches provide variations of skin, hair and clothing, while map fragments introduce pattern and information into the blouse. The blue wallpaper establishes a flat decorative field behind the figure. Rather than imitating paint, the materials model form through changes of colour, shape and printed detail while continuing to declare themselves as paper.

The exhibition judges noted the “playful use of a diverse range of collage materials” and the use of paint swatches to model skin tones, clothing and hair.

Liv, by Stephen Clively, acrylic on wallpaper coated with mod podge, 70.5 cm by 44 cm. 2023. This artwork was awarded 1st Prize in acrylics at the 2023 ASOC Spring Exhibition.

The intern says: Painted almost entirely during a forty-minute sitting, Liv relies on broad brushwork and selective description. The floral wallpaper remains visible around and through the painted image, providing pattern and texture without requiring additional background detail. Large areas of black, blue and warm flesh tones establish the figure quickly, while relatively few marks describe volume and posture.

The exhibition judges praised the “confident handling of media”, “broad and energetic brushwork” and “economy of means”.