John Macfarlane: New Works

We are delighted to announce an exhibition showcasing new work by John Macfarlane.

From his home and studio in the Black Mountains, Macfarlane continues his work as an artist, finding refuge from the world of opera and ballet in the forests and thickets around his home, and in his still lifes.

Among the finest set designers of his generation, Macfarlane has a continued presence in productions from the world’s most pre-eminent opera and ballet houses, imparting a significant body of work over decades long partnerships with some of theatres foremost directors and choreographers. Renowned for his tenebrous visual language and evocative storytelling in these productions, Macfarlane has now focused his creative energy and skill into a series of new artworks in this, his first exhibition as a full-time artist.

This remarkable collection features still lifes, figurative characters and costume work, portraits, scenes from the stage, and a number of stunning treescapes. Alongside these works, we are introduced to his meticulously crafted and intimate toy theatres, offering a unique opportunity to explore the imaginative worlds crafted by Macfarlane for Frankenstein, Cinderella and The Nutcracker. We see how one discipline may inform the other, where his painting and design for stage sit in counterpoint. His trees, plates and banquets, never far removed from the worlds and the music that has scored his career.

This exhibition not only celebrates an exciting new chapter in Macfarlanes artistic journey, but also plainly states that he is too, amongst the finest visual artists we can boast.

Photography by Simon Regan

Catalogue