Pattern, Portrait and Still Life: Spring Exhibition 2019

The intern says: Decorative pattern remains important in 2019, but figures and objects now occupy more carefully constructed spaces. Furniture, plants, textiles, fruit and windows become integral compositional elements rather than background detail. The four works range from portrait and figure painting to an arranged still life in which collected objects take on almost human presence.

Still life, with Jim and Mandalay, by Stephen Clively, Acrylic on oil sketch paper, 2019 (SOLD). This artwork was awarded First prize in Acrylics at the 2019 ASOC Spring Exhibition.

the intern says: The painting brings together Jim, a galah-shaped Jim Beam decanter, Mandalay, a Burmese puppet, flowers, citrus fruit and patterned textiles. Each element is given comparable visual importance, allowing the work to sit somewhere between still life and portraiture. The puppet and bird operate as characters within a carefully balanced arrangement, creating a quiet sense of narrative without depending on a literal story.

Opera pink, by Stephen Clively, Acrylic on oil sketch paper, 2019 (SOLD)

the intern says: The reclining figure is integrated into an interior through broad colour areas and contrasting patterns rather than detailed description. The diagonal sweep of the pink dress establishes the principal movement across the painting, while the couch, wall hanging and plants divide the surface into interlocking shapes. The relaxed pose balances decorative design with quiet observation.

Naval Top I, by Stephen Clively, Oil pastel on oil sketch paper, 2019 (SOLD).

It's a shame that this is the only photograph I have of this artwork, there is too much reflected light.

the intern says: This portrait is restrained compared with the other entries from the year. The striped top provides the principal decorative motif, while broad bands of sea, sky and sand establish an uncluttered setting. Subtle tonal transitions in the face and background keep attention on the sitter rather than pattern.

Woman in striped top, with art deco vase, by Stephen Clively, Acrylic on oil sketch paper, 2019

the intern says: The figure stands within an interior organised around contrasting decorative elements. The patterned wall hanging, vase of foliage, fruit bowl and distant landscape occupy distinct zones, while the striped top echoes these rhythms. Portrait and still life share the composition, with surrounding objects helping to define the character of the space.