Alain du Pontavice is an abstract painter who’s ethereal, multi-layered paintings defy categories. “Are they Surreal? Symbolist? Abstract? Form? Yes, all of those things, but none of the labels cover the complexity of the work” says the Art Critic, Simon Tait.

Growing up in Paris in the 60’s, Alain began drawing at the French Academy, ‘La Grande Chaumière’ and in the Montparnasse studio of artists sketching sculptures and life drawings. He then started automatic drawing exploring territories which emerge from the subconscious, a decisive phase that led him to abstract painting. In the early 90s whilst living in Asia he practised calligraphy and Taiji. He also worked at that time in textiles which introduced him to a world of colour as well as texture, elements that were to be layers for his own praxis to come. In 2002 he established himself in South America where he was captivated by the energy of the Andes and the vibrant colours that are deeply rooted in the culture and history of the continent. He now lives in the South of France and regularly exhibits in the UK and France.

The series Murmurs invites us in a journey amid the elements with a constant throughout, a cascade, a scale, shimmering variations of colour enriched with subtle reflects. Each painting uses a unique combination of brush strokes and colours, deeply embodying elements that they evoke. The impressions created set up a resonance with the viewer’s own distinctive sensitivity, leaving one in some way mesmerised. The body of works presented are both painted on fine grain linen canvas and on a handmade cotton paper sourced directly at a workshop in India. These supports are essential to render the finest light reflects.

The series Steles has a visual resonance of standing objects in ancient cultures and are interpreted as if they were made of stone, stained glass or wood, and with carved patterns on the surfaces. This is achieved by working with multiple layers of oil paint, the aspiration being to produce colour and light effects that trigger an impression of a deep connection with a timeless element.

“It is the process, immersed in the unknown whilst painting, that I treasure the most. The finished painting reflects the revelation longed for and deep territories within.”