The chair that belonged to a grandad carries a specific kind of presence in a room — the object that persists after the person, holding its shape and its position...
The chair that belonged to a grandad carries a specific kind of presence in a room — the object that persists after the person, holding its shape and its position as though waiting. Gavin Dobson found this subject in the marks left on a canvas board used as a pre-mixing palette, the process of the Palettes series — working into what was unconsciously created — leading him here.
He has described the Palettes series in his own words: what was left were beautiful expressive and abstract marks on boards, shapes which were unconsciously created. Using these, I worked into them further to create these final tactile pieces. The pre-existing marks are visible in the final work as a kind of substrate — the colour and texture of the palette-use beneath the intentional marks of the finished painting. Oil on canvas board, wooden tray frame, signed. £450.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Gavin Dobson
Gavin Dobson is a painter based in London, known for his vibrant and expressive artworks that often explore themes of identity, sexuality, and personal experience.
His work is characterised by bold colours, dynamic compositions, and a mix of abstract and figurative elements. Gavin frequently draws inspiration from his own life and the broader LGBTQ+ community, creating pieces that resonate with themes of love, desire, and the human form.
Gavin’s work has been exhibited in various galleries across the UK and internationally. Selected exhibitions include at Sotheby’s, Christie’s and Drewatts Auction Houses, ING Discerning Eye at The Mall Galleries, Film Four at Somerset House, and A celebration of Contemporary British Painting at The Bermondey Project Space.
In 2024, Gavin was handpicked by Brookfield Properties as their Pride Artist of the Year.
