Clyde Hopkins, Flatter by the Bee's Attention (1991). Oil on linen. 137 x 113 cm. Courtesy Castor, London.
Clyde Hopkins, Seagulls, Brian Sewell, Kicking etc (1992). Oil on linen. 162 x 132 cm. Courtesy Castor, London.
Clyde Hopkins, May and Dagwood (1991). Oil on canvas. 188 x 176 cm. Courtesy Castor, London.
Last September, Castor and indigo+madder packed up shop in Deptford in southeast London—a haunt of Goldsmiths art students—and relocated north of the river to Fitzrovia. The two galleries have since shared a space while running separate exhibition programmes.
On visiting Noorain Inam‘s show at indigo+madder, we came across Andy Wicks, founder of Castor, who was in the process of hanging his latest exhibition dedicated to the late British abstractionist Clyde Hopkins.
Wicks has brought together a selection of the abstract artist’s large-scale works on canvas and paper for Clyde Hopkins: Paintings 1989–1993 (27 January–4 March 2023), which spans a pivotal period in the artist’s career.
It was a joy to be introduced to Hopkins’ practice, with its implosive energy and expressive vigour. Hopkins held exhibitions at top U.K. institutions, including a solo show at the Serpentine 1986. His painting Kent to Yorkshire (via the DT) (1983–1984) was acquired by the Tate in 2020.
Main image: Clyde Hopkins, Bread in Pocket (1991) (detail). Oil on canvas. 177.5 x 210 cm. (detail). Courtesy Castor, London.
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