The practice of art in the era of the post-Postmodern, forces a re-evaluation of modernist aesthetics in a contemporary context. Ben Cook’s work acknowledges this, by taking inspiration from historical movements, combined with an interest in contemporary popular culture.
Whilst living in Manchester it was the legacy of abstract expressionism, the heritage of Manchester’s historic textile industry and the omnipresence of the city’s two football teams that informed his work. (See Found Paintings)
Since moving to Cornwall two years ago he has been developing a new body of work titled Landscape Paintings. This series of works, using materials associated with the surf industry, references the modernist aesthetics of the St Ives School and the techniques of the ‘Finish Fetish’ movement of 60’s west coast America. The history of West Penwith, and the ongoing fascination with landscape painting for the artists who live there, has led to Cook’s own investigation of the landscape, and how this can be depicted in relation to popular culture and abstract art. He is experimenting with neoprene, the material used to construct wetsuits, and surfboard materials including polyurethane, fiberglass, balsa wood, hemp cloth and surf wax. (See Landscape Paintings).
Artworks by Ben Cook can be purchased direct from the artist. If you would like to buy an artwork – whether seen on this website or elsewhere – please contact the artist. Email: ben.cook5@virgin.net