OLIVER PERKINS
b. 1979, New ZealandOliver Perkins’ paintings hover between a declaration of formal intent and material process. It is this opposition which he exploits to draw the viewer into a conversation of edge, surface and object. Perkins creates his paintings by stacking stretcher frames, pulling the canvas taught to reveal a an underlying system.
It is the process of stretching that the artist adopts as a formal gesture and from which he builds a vocabulary of spatial understanding. The devices of foreground and background are translated into relief, heightening the surface upon which Perkins bisects with irregular lines.
Born in New Zealand, Perkins received his MA from Chelsea School of Art, London, and is well represented between London and New Zealand. His practice is reductive and often monochromatic, and he describes his works as ‘physical models that explicitly, and self reflectively, reveal the process and mechanics of production.’ Yet the tension between representational space and relational concerns allow for a porous intersection to be established, navigated and negated.
View Oliver Perkins' Artworks
Explore Oliver Perkins' Exhibitions
Explore and Follow Artists Shaping Contemporary Art
A respected voice in contemporary art discourse.
Focusing on ambitious storytelling and insightful art-world commentary. Ocula Magazine publishes in-depth interviews, critical essays and timely analysis on the artists, exhibitions and ideas driving the global art world.
Learn more about Ocula Magazine
Showcasing the best of the art world.
Ocula partners with galleries from around the world to highlight their artists, artworks and exhibitions. Gallery membership is by application and invitation, with each member vetted by an independent panel.
Learn more about Ocula Membership
Specialises in the sale of major artworks.
Led by a team with deep ties to the world’s leading auction houses, galleries and collectors. Ocula’s advisory team offers bespoke services to high-net-worth clients from around the world who are looking to acquire the best of contemporary and modern art.
Learn more about our team and services