Perfectionism: A Trick of the Eye
Curated by Becca Pelly-Fry
July.16 - September.16.2020
“I like the relationship between wood and construction also the fact we as humans have been using it as material for building, making tools and various utensils out of for thousands of years. It feels like there is a familiarity and comfort with it, being a natural trustworthy material that’s been used for practical benefits for generations.”
OLLY FATHERS
Born in 1987, Fathers grew up in Litchfield, UK, and studied at Wimbledon College of Art, graduating in 2010. Olly’s works utilise simple geometric shapes and forms to create striking works that take the viewers on a visual journey through space. He employs a variety of wood veneers, which he assembles into compositions that references architecture, design, and culture, including early computer technology and graphics rooted in Bauhaus & the Memphis design movement. As an artist, his works in the exhibition demonstrate his playfulness and joy present in his creative process and in the making of his works.
Olly Fathers, Species in Space, 2020, Oak, Jatoba, Dyed Tulip, Dyed Figured Sycamore, Fumed Oak, Birch, Dyed Sycamore, Figured Maple, American Walnut, Moabi, Dyed Birds Eye Maple, Walnut Burr on board with Sold Walnut Frame, 142.3 cm x 102 cm, 56 in x 40.2 in
Olly Fathers, Species in Space 2, 2020, Purpleheart, Dyed Birds Eye Maple, Fumed Oak, Dyed Tulip, Oak, Walnut Burr, Walnut, Figured Sycamore, Koto on board with Sold Walnut Frame, 72.8 cm x 52.8 cm, 28.7 in x 20.8 in
“One of the most fun parts of the making process is once I’ve cut all the elements out, carefully place them back together.“
Olly Fathers, Constructed Panel, 2020, Oak, fumed oak, dyed oak, birch, walnut, beech & dyed ash veneers on board with Sold Walnut Frame, 60 cm x 35 cm, 23.6 in x 13.8 in
Olly Fathers, Playing with Space, 2020, Wood vinyl and card on 220gsm heavy cartridge paper, in solid walnut frame, 71.8 cm x 54.9 cm, 28.3 in x 21.6 in
EXHIBITION/COMMISSION HIGHLIGHTS
2019 Commission for 12m wide mural for the entrance of The Other Art Fair Granary Square, Kings Cross, London
2019 Commission for ITV Creates project https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y9050UuXVE0
2018-19 Harder Edge exhibition Saatchi Gallery, London
2017 Commission for Carnaby Street shopfront as part of London Design Festival https://vimeo.com/23366393