Testament by Ross Chisholm at Green Art Gallery

Soon to be on show at Green Art Gallery in Dubai is Testament by Ross Chisholm. The exhibition is the first solo show by the British artist in Dubai and marks his first presentation in the Middle East. In an evident nod to 18th century painting, Chisholm’s oeuvre is inspired by British artists Thomas Gainsborough and Joshua Reynolds, with subject matter consisting of historical images juxtaposed with more modern, avant-garde renditions.

Chisholm showcases 18th-century British society portraits and genre scenes and couples them with 1970s vacation snapshots sourced from flea markets. The artist then distorts traditional portraiture through geometric abstraction and by coupling it with figures from different centuries. For example, we might witness a portrait of a noblewoman with elements of 1980s punk fashion.

It is in this way that Chisholm continues his abstract portraiture. Although in these new works the original image is less visible than in his previous ones. Even so, the artist’s poignant faces continue to probe the past along with the future through their juxtaposition of abstract and classical influences.

Testament by Ross Chisholm runs from 11 January to 10 March. For more information visit www.gagallery.com