Graham Dean, an artist who has firmly rooted himself in the contemporary art scene, boasts an international exhibition portfolio spanning over five decades. Dean’s artistry revolves around using the human figure as a medium to communicate profound ideas, emotions, and psychological narratives.
Unlike artists who rely solely on literal representation, Dean’s paintings delve deeper, transcending the mere form of his subject confining his work to a literal plane, Dean utilises the body as an expressive canvas to communicate the innermost depths of human memory and psyche. His unique approach combines multiple versions of a composition, reassembled in a collage-like manner, thereby lending an immediacy and rawness to his art, beautifully echoing the emotional intensity they portray.
Graham Dean stands out in the contemporary art world. His influence extends globally, making him as a significant figure for art enthusiasts, critics, and budding artists. The magic of his art not just in the technical mastery, but also in the powerful narratives, that emanate from every stroke and hue. While many artists become synonymous with particular styles or methods, Dean sets himself apart by pioneering an entirely new technique. This method, reverse archaeology , transformed the very nature of watercolour painting, creating a synergy between the deliberate action of the artist and the unpredictable actions of the medium. His choice of handmade Indian paper not only adds a unique texture to his work but also imbues it with an organic quality that contrasts with the meticulousness of his technique.
The recurring theme across his art is the concept of identity. But Dean’s exploration doesn’t stop at physical identity. He crosses deeper terrains, delving into the spiritual and psychological aspects. His belief in the body as a ‘thinking body’ sets the tone for many of his works, positioning the human form as a vessel of ideas and emotions . His works, while deeply personal , also operate as mirrors reflecting broader societal nuances. They touch upon pressing topics like acceptance, equality, the meaning of beauty, and the societal constructs that often bind and define us.
Bridgeman Images 2023