Exhibition Overview: The Urgency of Now
Renowned artist Grahame Parry will debut his latest collection at a new exhibition titled The Urgency of Now, which will be held at the Morfi Gallery in Limassol. The exhibition kicks off this Friday at 7 pm and will remain open to the public until October 20.
Insight into Parry’s Work
Art historian and writer Michael Paraskos has offered a critical examination of Parry’s artistic journey and his latest works. In his critique, Paraskos delves into the influences that have shaped Parry’s art, particularly the contemporary social environment that has played a pivotal role in its creation. Below is an adapted extract from Paraskos’ insightful review, highlighting both the traditional influences on Parry’s style and the significance of modern-day influences.
Artistic Influences and Evolution
Paraskos emphasizes that one of the strongest influences in Parry’s artistic development is his time spent at the Cyprus College of Art, where he was first a student and later a tutor under Stass Paraskos, the college’s principal. There are distinct abstract elements in Parry’s paintings that are reminiscent of Geoff Rigden, another tutor at the college. However, the use of color and spatial composition in Parry’s work seem to have been most significantly impacted by Stass Paraskos. This connection is particularly evident in some of Parry’s pieces, which bear a resemblance to the Great Wall of Lemba, a notable sculpture wall that surrounds the college’s campus in Paphos.
A Personal Yet Universal Narrative
Despite these influences, Parry’s work is unmistakably personal and unique. His paintings seem to hold deeply personal stories, which are purposefully kept ambiguous, allowing the viewer to interpret and engage with the artwork on their own terms. While many artists draw from their personal experiences, Parry understands that art is not simply an emotional release or a direct confession. Instead, art must create enough emotional distance for the viewer to engage with it independently, transforming it into something that resonates with a broader community. This balancing act—maintaining a personal connection to his work while also inviting public interpretation—is a challenge that Parry navigates skillfully, allowing his audience to experience the artwork in their own way.
The Urgency of Art in Today’s World
In concluding his review, Paraskos refines his definition of The Urgency of Now, describing it as “the pressing need for artists to engage with the world in a personal, material, and sensory way, despite the fact that our modern existence is becoming increasingly impersonal, digital, and often detached from reality.” This reflection not only underscores the importance of art in contemporary society but also highlights the timeliness and relevance of Parry’s latest works.
Exhibition Details
The Urgency of Now is a solo exhibition by Grahame Parry, running from October 4 to October 20 at Morfi Gallery in Limassol. The opening night will take place at 7 pm. Visitors can view the exhibition during the gallery’s regular hours: Monday to Friday from 10 am to 12:45 pm and 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm, and on Saturday from 10 am to 1 pm. For more information, contact the gallery at 99-345474 or visit www.morfi.org.
This exhibition offers a rare opportunity to witness the intersection of personal expression and universal themes, making The Urgency of Now a must-see event for art enthusiasts in Cyprus.
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