Project Description:

During 2016-2021, Thompson created a body of abstract works that explored the complex relationship between shapes and forms in kinetic space. The large and small scale paintings consist of spontaneous gestures on linen canvas with diverse applications of colors that stretch the limits between impulse and recurring motifs. Thompson uses a wide range of narratives that transcend the boundaries of figurative surrealism and post-modern abstraction traditions. Thompson’s signature application of overlapping layers of oval shapes, varied modes of colors and brush strokes are a distinctive vocabulary of gestural intelligence. The compositions investigate the emotional relationships between dance culture, house music, fashion, beauty and subconscious voyages, and challenge contemporary thinking of rhythms, color and semblance. His objective is to share his improvisational studio practices mixed with historical inspiration to wider audience. 

Project Statement:

This group of paintings places Terry Thompson, in the context with abstract expressionist artists, including Salvador Bru, Miro, Calder, Gorky, and de Kooning. Influence of Picasso can also be seen in the Alien Conversations paintings. Thompson, in response to the Abstract Expressionists, sought to return figurative subject matter to painting, while also combining scenes from dance culture with gestural and loose brushwork and the use of strong red and orange colors that are distinctive to nightclub lighting and photos of galactic space.