180 Monochromes

I was invited to make 180 paintings as a permanent feature for the re-build of the Young Vic Theatre in Waterloo, London.

My name was selected from a short list of four British artists. Apart from the constraints of a budget, I was completely free to explore ideas. I researched and developed my ideas over a period of two years (2003-04).

I worked very closely with the chemist at Kolorbond, Birmingham to develop an exterior paint that is now uniquely available from Kolorbond. The pigment is designed to mirror the characteristics of oil paint but can withstand the elements since it is cellulose-based. This particular pigment has never been previously manufactured.

All of the paintings were made in my studio over a period of three months during 2005. The paintings were hung around the exterior of the theatre auditorium under my supervision in 2006. The collaboration with Tompkins and Lan gave me an opportunity to engage in debate and discussion about my work within the broader context of architecture and installation.