The first cigarette of the day, the morning, the after-something — the ritual object that appears in Dobson's painting from within marks he didn't intend to make. The Palettes series...
The first cigarette of the day, the morning, the after-something — the ritual object that appears in Dobson's painting from within marks he didn't intend to make. The Palettes series consistently finds its narratives in domestic and personal moments: the chair that belonged to someone, the laundry, the hot tub, and here the cigarette that starts or follows something.
Gavin Dobson has described working into the unconscious marks on these palette boards as a way of keeping the painting fresh — not knowing what the subject will be until he begins to find it. For an artist whose practice is rooted in storytelling, finding narrative in what was already there rather than imposing it gives the work a quality of discovery that planned compositions rarely have. 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.
