In Free State, Chris Doris continues the journey of spiritual exploration he began in his previous exhibition, The Sign Of The Cross, on this occasion looking more towards the Eastern mystical tradition.
The paintings are large scale, effected on paper using a single brush, and the rough simplicity suggests a meditative, devotional quality that eschews painterly technique as an unnecessary luxury. What results is a series of spiritual diagrams illustrating various aspects of transformation and transcendence.
Areas of colour are filled with a matrix of small, rapidly sketched figures going through the earthbound motions of earthly existence. Boundaries separate different groups or nations. The individual exists within, but separated from society. Cross-legged yogic figures sit apart from, form points of intersection with, or act as sources of influence upon the masses.
There is no doubting the conviction with which Doris approaches his subject, and for centuries artists have successfully sermonised through the easel. However, the problem here is the degree of direct didacticism, which makes for a very one-level experience and frustratingly ignores the artist's proven eloquence.
Until May 17th.
