SELWYN MIDGEN ARTIST’S STATEMENT
“You turn a corner. There is a surprise awaiting you. It is the shape, shadows, or the lack thereof which stirs something inside. This triggers your desire to capture the moment and it is your interpretation of that moment that makes the art. It is for you but, also to enable you to convey your emotion to others.”
Selwyn’s recent shift towards geometric abstraction introduces a dialogue between structure and fluidity. He engages in a process that moves past superficial depiction of his subjects.
In this new series, he views space as a geometric framework where space, memory and the unnoticed fragments of daily life converge. Yet, he doesn’t ignore the role of light and colour – they become essential forces. The interaction between space, light and colour deepens the resonance of these objects, revealing layers of meaning we might otherwise overlook.
Selwyn, until recently, produced predominantly figurative work, focusing on landscapes either from his home in Highgate or inspired by his extensive travels. During the lockdown, Selwyn began to experience mobility issues, and due to the layout of his home, he became intrigued by the process of climbing up and down stairs. This led him to develop a series of more abstract works, which are featured in this exhibition. His geometric forms, vivid in colour, experiment with elements like gates and fencing. Selwyn’s work, primarily in oil paint, is presented on various hardboard surfaces, MDF, and specially prepared cardboard.
About
Selwyn Midgen is a British artist raised in Sussex, surrounded by the scenic vistas of the Sea and the South Downs. Following a successful career as a surveyor, at the age of 35, he pursued his true passion, landscape art, alongside property consultancy. He completed a Diploma in Art at Sir John Cass in 1980, followed by further studies at the British Institute in Florence and short courses at the Slade School of Art and other notable art colleges in London, before setting up his studio in 2008 at the Chocolate Factory in Wood Green, North London. Selwyn has exhibited in numerous group exhibitions in London and Spain, and his paintings are in private collections in France, Spain, Singapore, and the Uk
