Frank Bowling, Benjamin Run

Frank Bowling’s abstract print Benjamin Run features a vibrant and spontaneous composition where six circles of paint are prominently placed at the center. These circles, representing primary colors along with green, white, and black, were created when Bowling’s son Benjamin tipped over a strip of children’s paint pots, embodying the artist’s embrace of the unpredictable nature of paint. Through this playful yet intentional act, Bowling explores the limitless possibilities of color and form, celebrating the unexpected beauty that can emerge from even the simplest materials.

Frank Bowling, a pivotal figure in the realm of British art, has profoundly shaped the landscape of abstract painting with his dynamic and innovative approach. Born in Guyana in 1936, Bowling’s artistic journey began after relocating to London in the 1950s, where he honed his craft at the Royal College of Art. Throughout his illustrious career, he has emerged as a seminal force in the evolution of gestural abstraction in Britain, celebrated for his masterful manipulation of color and texture. Frank Bowling’s abstract artworks are distinguished by their vibrant use of color and a deep exploration into the materiality of paint. He employs an array of painting techniques, including pouring and dripping, to forge complex, textured surfaces that defy traditional notions of canvas flatness. His paintings incorporate an eclectic mix of materials, such as resin, wax, and pigments, crafting pieces that are not only visually arresting but also richly tactile. Moreover, Frank Bowling’s oeuvre dialogues with the legacy of abstract expressionism, drawing on the innovative techniques pioneered by painters like Jackson Pollock. Through his pioneering contributions, Bowling has redefined the boundaries of painting, challenging conventional understandings of its form and function. Bowling’s printmaking practice further extends his exploration of color and texture, allowing him to experiment with the interplay of these elements on various substrates. His fine art prints often employ techniques that reflect his painting style, using layering and textural contrasts to create dynamic and visually compelling compositions. Frank Bowling’s commitment to experimentation and his engagement with abstract expressionist traditions have cemented his status as a trailblazer in the art world. His significant impact is recognized through solo exhibitions at prestigious institutions, including Tate Britain (London), Haus der Kunst (Munich), Serpentine Gallery (London) and Whitney Museum of American Art (New York). Knighted and honored with distinctions such as Sir Frank Bowling Kt OBE, RA, he continues to work from his studios in London and New York, leaving an indelible mark on the global art scene through his exploration of color, form, and the essence of paint itself.

Frank Bowling, Benjamin Run