On ending 2015 and four months into the residency at Laois Arthouse, my research on Patrick Scott and his work grows to new levels as I have delved into his collection of papers and studio books at NIVAL.
Scott's love affair with simplistic forms in shimmering gold, influenced by Zen Buddhism, as well as his earlier work with striking Bauhaus tones in a brilliant rainbow of colours, appear to mirror his long colourful life. This is the impression that I get as I continue to appraise this collection and discover through numerous warm and heartfelt letters, postcards, greetings cards and fax mail from adoring friends and colleagues. Adored not just for his art, his skill and his professionalism, but for his friendship, his kindness, his witty humor, his understanding and his wisdom. I began this project with the artist in mind, his work and the influence it has has on my own practice; but now I have begun to get a glimpse of the person, and a life filled with love and expression. (Note: All photographs are taken for documentary purposes*)
The making in the studio still continues. I have just completed a series of six paintings titled 'Sigil I-VI'. One of these in currently on display at the Dunamaise Gallery for their annual Winter show. The work attempts to interpret various forms of mystic ritual and meditative aids inspired by religious iconography, Zen and Sufi art.
Thirteen boxes: the Patrick Scott Collection in its totality.
Brochure design for the Dublin International Theatre Festival, 1957.
A design for a Brown Thomas lighting brochure, 1952.
Early designs for an Irish tourism brochure
One of Pat's infamous cat drawings from a fax mail:)