Art Frieze London 2015 (Part 2)

Further impressions from Frieze London Art fair

Colourful works by Ruairiadh O’Connell inspired by uniforms and flags of Japanese Hikeshi firemen from the Edo period (1603-1868). The wall works mimic the ornamental and strategic stitches of firemen’s uniforms which were often hand stitched by wives and family members to protect their loved ones. The protective gear was built up to eight layers of stitching to be able to trap and shrink the water into the spaces.

Ruairiadh O’Connell, 2015, Jessica Silverman Gallery

The sculptures are inspired by the ‘Matoi’ flags that were carried by the fireman. Jessica Silverman tells me that O’Connell is interested to explore psychological and social dimensions of abstractions. Last year the Scottish artist presented a series of silkscreens based on the patterns of casino carpets at the San Francisco based gallery. “They are designed to influence our behaviour. Some of the patterns are so bold and dazzling to look at that you will look at the slot machines and bet more”. The gallery received a Special Commendation from the jury for their presentation.

Mark Flood (pixeled Rothko’s), 2015, Yngve Holen, Original Spare Part neo, 2015, Stuart Shave/Modern Art gallery.

Stuart Shave/Modern Art’s two-artist presentation of Mark Flood and Yngve Holen, was chosen by the jury as the winner of the Stand Prize at Frieze London.

Jason Martin, Kamatsiri, 2015, mixed medium on aluminium, Galerie Thaddaeus Ropac