At the age of 82, Max Gimblett shows no signs of slowing down. The upcoming solo exhibition across both our Lorne St and Kitchener St Galleries showcases new abstract paintings that are vital and energetic, utilizing a fresh colour palette of pastels, which are contrasted with dark accents and gilded gestures.
Gimblett's methodology of all mind/no mind from Zen Buddhism is central to his artistic practice. Wystan Curnow writes, "... [Max Gimblett] does not in the usual sense watch what he is doing - there's no time... The eye acts much as the arm does and aims to interact with it."[1] Gesture precedes thought in a burst of pigment on canvas. In Gimblett’s practice, Eastern spiritual beliefs and an interest in Jungian psychology combine with Western influences such as modernism and abstract expressionism. His paintings have the assured confidence of a long, meditative practice.
This exhibition of new paintings will also see the launch of a new series of unique screenprints on paper, completed during his visits to New Zealand throughout the past year.
Since his 80th birthday, celebrated in early 2016 with the exhibition one day in the afternoon of the gods, Max has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate from The University of Waikato for his contributions as an artist, scholar, teacher, and philanthropist. His works are held in numerous public and private collections internationally and are increasingly sought after.
[1] Curnow, Wystan and Yau, John. Max Gimblett. Craig Potton Publishing in association with Gow Langsford Gallery, 2002.