Post war artists were experimenting, frustrated by a global situation over which they had no control. The ability and need to answer questions and break rules had never been so prevalent and it was with this mind set that modern and therefore conceptual art was born. This movement created a trendy, cosmopolitan audience for contemporary modern art. A form that although at the time provided artist and dealers with incredible monetary gain, at that time the idea of modern art was not exposed worldwide and certainly not enjoyed by all.
The problem with modern art is the same problem we all face when encountering something new, which is comprehension. It doesn’t matter if you are an art lover, creator or academic, if you don’t understand you tend to switch off. Now 50 years ago when Modern Art and by that I mean art of a conceptual nature i.e. ‘Pop Art’ or ‘Abstract’ was hitting the headlines in America the British were taking a stance of denial. In true British fashion we erred towards a conservative view of the movement – sticking to what we knew worked, sold and what we liked. Rapidly moving forward, Britain’s position on modern art has changed dramatically. Possibly enhanced by dealers like Charles Saatchi and show rooms like the Tate we now find ourselves embracing the conceptual movement and providing platforms not only for some of the greatest known living artists but also those younger, emerging stars of the future. We host the Turner prize which, up until 1991 was deemed not important enough for the general public to understand, however, after a televised showing of the competition, it was soon understood that us Brits do love a bit of Modern Art. Maybe we have changed our psychology? Maybe we have changed our views, as internationally known artists born and bred in this country are now touted as legends of the modern generation. Something to give us credence and an emblem to be proud of. Whatever the reason, fundamentally the British public have become a nation of modern art lovers. Embracing and showcasing our ideas to the world. This is certainly compounded by the huge spend and investment the government is now ploughing into projects such as the development of ‘Tate Modern’. A ‘Free Entrance’ art gallery which encourages art lovers from all over the world to enter and enjoy what us Brits deem fit to be considered modern art of international standards.
George Thornton Art prides itself on offering a range of art from different movements and we’d love to share our artists, modern, abstract or figurative with you. Call in or call us – we have superlative art in an independent gallery.
Industrial Spray Paints on Aluminum
Original Artwork
£3,950
Signed limited edition, gold leaf hand embellished print on paper.
(Edition of 25)
£295 Framed.
“Space Cadet” by Darren Fraser
Oil and Pencil on Box Canvas
Original Artwork
£1,750
12A Flying Horse Walk, Nottingham, NG1 2HN – 01159243555
GEORGE THORNTON ART 