TOM FRENCH
black and white, figurative combinations of photorealism and abstraction
Tom French, the Newcastle-born painter who passed away in 2019, left behind a legacy of thought-provoking and captivating artwork that delved into the depths of the human psyche.
Growing up as the son of an artist, French developed a love for galleries, painting, and comic books at a young age. This passion led him to pursue a career in art, first studying at the Newcastle School of Art and Design, and then at the Sheffield Institute of Art and Design, where he achieved a first-class BA Honors in 2005.
French's paintings are a visual discourse on Dualism, a philosophy that posits that the mind and the brain are not identical, with the mind being the seat of consciousness and the brain the seat of intellect. This fascination with the duality of the physical and metaphysical is reflected in the double images that populate his artwork. Faces, figures, and skulls repeat and shadow one another, with echoes of Rorschach's psychometric tests in the mirroring and the monochromatic palette. Intuitive, gestural brushstrokes tap into the subconscious, creating a sense of unease and intrigue in the viewer.
In 2014, French had an extended, sold-out solo show entitled Flux at Lawrence Alkin Gallery, showcasing his unique style and philosophy. His work also appeared at prestigious art fairs such as the London Art Fair and Scope New York and Miami Beach, and was featured on the cover of Los Angeles Where and Upstart Magazine in 2013. He also created the cover art for the soundtrack of the cult film Donnie Darko, further solidifying his place in the art world.
French's paintings continue to evoke emotion and spark conversation long after his passing. His exploration of Dualism and the human mind challenges viewers to question their own perceptions and understanding of the world around them. French's work remains a testament to the power of art to provoke thought and inspire change.
