Margate beach in a heatwave is a vibrant scene bustling with funmakers, showcasing a picturesque summer multitude. However, there is a stark difference between the lively beach and the abstract art exhibition at the gallery at the end of the promenade. The exhibition features American abstract artist Ed Clark, whose work fails to resonate with the beachgoers and seems out of place in Margate.
While abstract art is often meant to challenge traditional perceptions of art, Clark’s canvases lack the passion and vision that make great abstract paintings truly sublime. With too many colors, brushstrokes, and layered lines, Clark’s work comes across as derivative and lacks a clear expression. Despite his efforts to establish himself as an artist separate from his race, his work falls short of leaving a lasting impact.
Clark’s journey as an artist, starting in 1950s Paris and later in Harlem, reflects his struggle to find his place in the art world. While he managed to establish himself as a pure abstract artist, his work is seen as mediocre compared to other American abstract painters. The exhibition at Turner Contemporary in Margate, featuring Clark’s work until 2024, raises questions about the relevance and connection of his art to the local community and the broader art world.
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Photo credit www.theguardian.com