Textures of Thought

Textures of Thought

Welcome to "Textures of Thought," an exclusive online exhibition featuring Ian Rayer-Smith’s latest abstract works. In this collection, Rayer-Smith delves into the emotional depth of human experience through layers of texture and colour. Inspired by classical art yet completely abstract, his pieces capture the tension between chaos and control, inviting viewers to connect with the raw, visceral energy of each painting. Explore and immerse yourself in these powerful visual narratives.
Colour plays a pivotal role in this collection. Rayer-Smith’s use of bold hues—ranging from earthy tones to vibrant reds and deep blues—enhances the emotional intensity of his work.
Welcome to "Textures of Thought", this collection delves into the artist's exploration of texture and form, offering viewers a powerful glimpse into the raw, intuitive energy that characterizes his work. Through bold use of color and layering, Rayer-Smith captures the tension between chaos and control, creating works that evoke a deeply emotional and reflective response. Rayer-Smith’s work is informed by his deep appreciation for art history, particularly the classical traditions of the Renaissance. However, his approach strips away recognizable forms and instead focuses on the expressive potential of abstraction. By eliminating figurative elements, his works transcends literal representation, allowing colour, texture, and gesture to communicate on a visceral level. Each piece in this exhibition reflects his ongoing dialogue between past and present, where the timelessness of classical influence meets the immediacy of modern abstraction. In "Textures of Thought," Rayer-Smith plays with the physical and emotional qualities of texture. His canvases are thickly layered, and the materials themselves seem to vibrate with energy. Each brushstroke, smear, or mark holds a moment of tension or release, embodying the spontaneity and intuition that define his creative process. These tactile surfaces not only invite viewers to visually engage but also encourage them to connect with the unseen layers of emotion that permeate the work. The title of the exhibition, "Textures of Thought," speaks to the deeper narrative within Rayer-Smith’s paintings. His works are both textural and cerebral, exploring the complexity of human thought and emotion. The physicality of the paint mirrors the abstract nature of mental and emotional landscapes, inviting viewers to interpret the layers of meaning within each piece. The absence of defined imagery allows for a more personal connection, as each viewer brings their own thoughts and emotions into the conversation with the artwork. Colour plays a pivotal role in this collection. Rayer-Smith’s use of bold hues—ranging from earthy tones to vibrant reds and deep blues—enhances the emotional intensity of his work. These colors interact with the textured surfaces, creating a dynamic energy that mirrors the push and pull of human thought. The tension between control and chaos is a recurring theme in this exhibition, reflecting the artist’s belief that abstraction is an ideal medium for conveying the full spectrum of human emotion.
"Cutters"
260 x 150cm Oil on Canvas
"Drenched"
178 x 170cm Oil on Canvas