SONG OF INDIA  by  CEDRIC BAXTER  &
NEW WORKS  by  STEPHEN GLASSBOROW
23rd August - 9th September, 2007  @  LINTON & KAY  Fine  Art  Gallery
Reviewed by Judith McGrath

Now here are two artists who know how to produce excellent works of art that celebrate the exotic, the erotic and the beautiful via the figure, in the most charming manner. We can't help but smile with wonderment and delight at the works presented here. Cedric Baxter's drawings composed of charcoal, conte or gouache and paintings constructed with acrylic and collage invite us into a world of beauty and pleasure, while beauty and elegance are celebrated in the bronze sculptures by Stephen Glassborow.

There is a definite sense of exuberance in Baxter's work, even the most sedate compositions have flowing rhythmic lines and buoyant patterns of colour. The former is a result of the artist being the consummate draftsman, the latter due to his use of fabric collage. Consider Apsaras a large work depicting three dancers, each in her own fluid pose. The composition is constructed of decorative floral fabric and solid painted areas. The ebb and flow of the pattern and each dancer's form work in harmony to suggest the rhythm of the music. One feels like swaying while contemplating this large, delightful image.

Much smaller yet equally inviting is Return of the Riderless Rockinghorse. This acrylic coloured mono print places a young couple (lovers?) and the title's toy horse in an overgrown garden. There may or may not be an old legend or some romantic tale relating to this image but it doesn't matter if it is unknown to the viewer. The collection of exotic flowers, undulating lines and rich colours are sufficient to intrigue and delight as we construct our own narrative, one that certainly involves a secret passion.

Then, in opposition to all the colour, three large black and white charcoal and conte drawings stand out as a refreshing interlude. These works not only continue the theme of the exhibition they display, with ease and excellence, the fact that Cedric Baxter is first and foremost a fine artist.

Stephen Glassborow too provides us with intriguing line, unexpected colour and exotic women. His cast bronze sculptures celebrate the beauty and joy of life with a different language of art, one that employs the female form with a hint of Art Deco, and certain playfulness. Glassborow's ladies stand tall and proud (Dress Code), sit pertly on a plush cushion suspended in mid air (Soft Landing) or on a bronze 'balloon' (Blow up Doll). Some are elegant in pose, others maintain a sense of the bohemian, all are captivating.

We have to appreciate the demure pose of Wind-up Doll as she 'unwinds' and the goddess like presentation of Roll Model as each, in their own manner, hints at the classical. Meanwhile the ladies who sit snugly in Loose Ends and Head Rest suggest a 1920's take on possibly fabulous, futuristic fashions. It's the juxtaposition of style and pose, form and content that keeps us intrigued and impressed by these excellent works.

Each sculpture is perfect in concept, composition and construction. However, if one had to chose a favourite I'd nominate Stairway to Heaven, not just because this almost an angel is a beautiful work in bronze but for how it suggests a certain sense of weightlessness. Stephen Glassborow has the ability to give our imagination wings.

Do make an effort to see this exhibition, the experience will lift the spirit and brighten your day.

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