Welcome to this stunning collection of new work by Jonathan Retallick.
The work is almost photographic in its smoothness and clarity. Yet his images are mysterious and ambiguous. Internal.
He's unwilling to give us the clues and basic comforts of orientation and scale. Are we looking at slides under a microscope, the architecture of our own bodies and cells, or pressed and folded undersea caves, or the topography of undiscovered planets where deserted landscapes stretch beneath limitless skies, lit by unfamiliar suns? Do they persist for a nanosecond or an aeon?
The work is engaging both emotionally and psychologically: A powerful stillness reigns. A resigned, sensual slo-mo languor pervades, though it may not quite cover the sense of alienation underneath. There is a hum of unease. A glitch.
With amazing fluidity, lines curve, flow and bend over each other. There is silk and bone. There is bright light, saturated colours, dangerous shadow. We see an artist in his absolute element, single-mindedly exploring the potential of his medium and his imagination.
Jonathan was born in 1996. He is already making a name for himself as one of Wales' most eye-catching and engaging young artists. He studied Art at Aberystwyth University. He lives and works in Menai Bridge. He has won numerous awards, including the Tony Goble Prize and the CASW Purchase prize, 2023.