Craig-Martin, Davenport, and Hosking turn colour into a medium of expression, creating a vivid dialogue in The Language of Colour.
The Language of Colour brings together three eminent British artists—Michael Craig-Martin, Ian Davenport, and Paul Hosking—in an exhibition that explores the profound role colour plays in the construction of visual meaning. At the heart of this collection is the use of colour not merely as a decorative element, but as a driving force that shapes the very structure of the works on display. Michael Craig-Martin, widely regarded as the "godfather" of the Young British Artists movement, lays the foundation for the exhibition with his visionary approach to colour and form, which has influenced generations of artists.
Ian Davenport and Paul Hosking, both former students of Craig-Martin, continue to push the boundaries of his legacy, each incorporating his influence into their distinct and innovative artistic practices. Davenport’s celebrated technique of pouring vibrant, fluid colours across the canvas contrasts with Hosking’s meticulous, almost sculptural approach to colour and texture. Together, these three artists represent a compelling dialogue between tradition and transformation, where the language of colour becomes a tool for expressing both individual creativity and a shared artistic lineage.
The works in The Language of Colour reveal the remarkable ways in which colour can communicate beyond the surface, inviting viewers to reflect on its emotional and conceptual power. With a global reputation and a rich history of international exhibitions, Craig-Martin, Davenport, and Hosking have solidified their place at the forefront of contemporary art, each continuing to shape and redefine the visual language of our time.