This summer, a significant debut is set to unfold at Surface Gallery, introducing the works of the multidisciplinary artist Martin Rayment in their first major UK Exhibition. Recognized for his ethereal resin collage paintings and animated sculptures, Martin Rayment offers a perspective into the collective human journey through the lens of his artistic expressions. The gallery will host an ensemble of 23 of Rayment’s creations, uniting them for the very first time in a special week-long presentation.
Named “The Deca-dance of Mr. Ray,” this exhibition draws together a collection of artworks spanning the initial decade of Rayment’s career. This presentation reveals the full spectrum of his intricate and layered artistic style. Embedded within these pieces are fragments of personal history intertwined with the contemporary world, all meticulously portrayed across expansive canvases enhanced with resin, collage, and paint. Evoking shades of Hieronymus Bosch and elements reminiscent of René Magritte, Rayment’s creations harmonize with the allure of Hollywood’s Golden Age.
Within these cinematic creations, a cast of enigmatic characters takes center stage—a choreography of torn and contorted figures that encompasses saints, wrestlers, ballerinas, villains, and even celestial luminaries. These carefully composed pieces beckon spectators to trace the contours of thought, from somber drama to enigmatic triptychs and futuristic sci-fi scenes, where the inception and dissolution of existence converge.
Rayment’s distinctive artistic approach marries playful gravity, fusing personal chronicles with the universal human experience. Across lifetimes, beauty unfurls, depicting the ongoing process of self-shaping—a ceaseless, opulent dance that defies closure.
Enriching the exhibition, a fresh series of animatronic collage sculptures invite interaction, adding another layer of engagement. Furthermore, the opening night will feature the screening of a documentary-length film about Martin Rayment’s artistic journey, realized through a collaborative effort with filmmaker Tom Dennis over the span of several years.
The apex of this momentous exhibition will be marked by a celebratory event on September 23rd. Attendees are extended a warm invitation to partake in a live performance that captures the essence of the exhibition. Martin Rayment will collaborate with an assembly of musicians, poets, dancers, and theatrical partners to craft an immersive experience.
For those interested in attending, the exhibition will be open to the public from September 15th to 23rd, 2023. Surface Gallery, situated at 16 Southwell Rd, Nottingham, NG1 1DL, UK, will host the event during the following hours:
– Monday: Closed
– Tuesday: 12 – 6pm
– Wednesday: 12 – 6pm
– Thursday: 12 – 6pm
– Friday: 12 – 6pm
– Saturday: 11am – 5pm
– Sunday: Closed
Admission to this remarkable exhibition is free, and there is no need for pre-booking. Additional information can be found on Surface Gallery’s official website, www.surfacegallery.org, or through direct contact at 0115 947 0793.
