Unframed
53 x 43 cm / 21 x 17 in
Framed
74 x 63 cm / 29 x 25 in
Oil on board
2021
Signed lower right
A private collection, Sydney
The first painting from Watson’s new series DIORAMAS, this superb new artwork demonstrates an exciting development in the artist’s work, and explores personal themes relevant to his experience of the global pandemic and lock downs.
"Walking our dogs along beautiful Collins Street in Melbourne during lock down and seeing the empty luxury fashion house's windows was both unprecedented and surprisingly inspiring. I thought about the same designer boutiques I've visited when travelling abroad before the pandemic, and how much I also miss visiting art museums and working with new models." wrote Watson.
A starting point was offered by the experience and the artist began imagining creating painted theatre sets or glass showcases which may be be viewed by an audience - many of which are observing online in numerous countries.
The central subject is the model, Alexis Caught, who posed for the artist in London in 2017, and plays rugby for the gay team the Kings Cross Steelers. He appears contemplative, resigned to waiting, and seems indifferent toward, or unaware of, the attention he might attract from passers-by given his spotlit presence in the windows of an Yves Saint Laurent boutique.
Immaculately painted details such as the platinum window frames, dazzle with reflections and reminds us the footballers public position is sealed behind glass. A spare and neutral colour palette ensures the eye popping magenta pink and emerald olive green is without competition.
Engaging the viewer is a portrait of a young man by Giovanni Batista Moroni, which Watson has enlarged to maximise visual impact. Reminding us we too are being watched as we pause outside the window, the classical portrait also provides compositional balance and a cherished memory of Watson’s international art museum visits.
Much of the greatest art in history tells us something about the period it was created, and creating this painting during a challenging period has been therapeutic personally for Watson. Possessing a chic and quietly erotic aesthetic, this exceptional oil painting is one of the artist’s most significant and personal artworks.
"I have been a proud collector of Ross' paintings for many years. His art is astounding in its beauty, emotion, and reverence for our humanity and the world we live in. His attention to the smallest details, and use of light, dark and colour, rivals art's greatest masters."
James J. O'Donnell, Patron, art collector, NYC
"We are loving our new acquisition and we know that 'Nathan, view to Florence' will bring us endless years of joy. Thanks for sharing your talent. We love your work so keep it up!"
Paul Zahra and Duncan Peerman, Sydney
"As avid art collectors we are very proud to have Ross' stunningly handsome work in our collection. His art brings us great joy and we love to share his work with our friends and visitors. We were absolutely thrilled to recently add 'Two Soldiers' to our collection."
Christopher Cosier & Chris Webber, Sydney
"I purchased the original painting 10 years ago at your gallery during Mardi Gras and it has given me enormous pleasure ever since. I remember standing in the gallery for a couple of hours wondering if I should buy it. I have never regretted that decision."
Jon Anderson and Lance Johnson, Palm Springs
"Your art hanging around our home provides us with such pleasure, and we can’t wait for A-Bay to join the Ross Watson family."
Haydon Elliot and Greg Moses, Melbourne
