Tim Hawkinson, known for his intricate mechanical sculptures made from unconventional materials, has surprised the art world with a new body of work. In an exhibition titled “Tim Hawkinson: Cabinet Pictures” at Miles McEnery Gallery, the artist showcases a series of small-scale paintings that diverge from his usual sculptural practice. These paintings, all done in oil on panel, capture intimate moments from the artist’s personal life, offering a glimpse into his world through a lens of detailed observation.
One of the most striking aspects of Hawkinson’s paintings is their small scale, with none exceeding 13 inches in height or width. Despite their diminutive size, these works are rich in detail and color, drawing the viewer in with their mesmerizing intricacy. The subjects of the paintings are drawn from the artist’s everyday life, including scenes of family members, mundane objects, and personal spaces. Each painting seems to tell a story, inviting the viewer to interpret and engage with the narrative.
Hawkinson’s attention to detail and realism in his paintings is reminiscent of Northern Renaissance artists like Hans Holbein. However, unlike the idealized portraits of that era, Hawkinson’s works capture the rawness and imperfections of his subjects. In paintings like “Wake,” where a man lies in bed reaching out to touch another’s finger, the realism is palpable, evoking a sense of vulnerability and humanity.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Hawkinson’s paintings is his ability to infuse them with a sense of mystery and depth. The images, sourced from the artist’s personal photographs, transcend the literal and become symbolic in their own right. Whether depicting a family member on a plane during the pandemic or a steel post wrapped in chains, each painting hints at a deeper meaning beneath the surface.
Overall, “Tim Hawkinson: Cabinet Pictures” offers a unique glimpse into the artist’s personal world through a series of intimate and evocative paintings. While Hawkinson’s background in sculpture is evident in his attention to detail and materiality, these works stand on their own as powerful explorations of life, mortality, and the passage of time. The exhibition, on view at Miles McEnery Gallery, showcases a new and unexpected side of this multifaceted artist, inviting viewers to delve into his world through the medium of painting.
