Matt Bell-Marking Time

Matt Bell
Marking Time
Preview Saturday 6 April 2-4 pm
@mattbell_art’s work explores the space between #painting and #drawing; between #figuration and #abstraction. This exhibition charts a shift from atmospheric, remembered #landscapes, reflecting rural idylls of childhood, to complex compositions, which weave together specific points of remembered time.
The exhibition presents as a unified aesthetic, achieved through the consistent exploration and exploitation of #landscape space, along with Bell’s intuitive and complex use of #colour, light, #surface and #mark.

His works are created directly from thought, offering a powerful, dynamic response to distant remembered experiences. The viewer is given the opportunity to find their way into and discover the paintings, which possess an illusionary quality, achieved through the skilful employment of suggestion and dissipation. “It is bracing to be confronted with these large works. They challenge us to rethink the way we usually conceive of landscapes and other traditional forms. Bell has excavated his interior life and the signs of the struggle are on the canvas…we do not rest in a contemplative fashion with these pictures but are encouraged to actively engage with their dynamism.” Dr Gareth Palmer (PhD) Therapist menshouldtalk.com
Matt Bell studied Fine Art at the @sladeschool of Art (1984-88). Whilst studying at the Slade he received Slade scholarships and prestigious, painting and drawing prizes. He has worked in the creative industries, including advertising and has also had a career in Higher Education. This exhibition reflects the commitment he made to fully reunite with painting and drawing in 2014
Matt Bell has been a full-time studio holder and an active member of @neo_artists #neostudios in central #Bolton, for the last two years.
On until 12 May
Thursday – Sunday 11-5 pm
neo:galleryX
The Market Place
Bolton
BL1 2AL