After Margo Lewers: A Vibrant Echo of Modernism

This captivating artwork, created in 2004 by Christine Lamson Dean, offers a compelling meditation on the legacy of modernist art and its enduring influence. Born in Sydney in 1963, Dean’s artistic practice is deeply rooted in a critical engagement with the philosophies that shaped Australian art during the mid-20th century. The piece, titled “After Margo Lewers,” directly responds to her residency at the Penrith Regional Gallery in 2003, a period dedicated to reinterpreting and assessing the work of Gerald and Margo Lewers alongside their contemporaries – Lyndon Dadswell, Frank and Margel Hinder, Paul Hopmeier, Elwyn Lynn, and Peter Upward. This wasn’t merely replication; it was an active dialogue, informed by the writings of influential critics like Clement Greenberg and Terry Smith, figures who profoundly shaped Australian artistic discourse.

A Symphony of Color and Form

The artwork itself is a vibrant explosion of color contained within a striking green border. The central design employs a dynamic circle as its foundation, populated with meticulously arranged shapes – bold reds, serene blues, sunny yellows, and fiery oranges – that coalesce into an abstract composition. Dean’s technique demonstrates a masterful control of layering and hue, creating depth and movement within the seemingly simple forms. The use of color isn't arbitrary; it’s deliberately evocative, recalling the expressive power of Abstract Expressionism while retaining a distinctly Australian sensibility.

Historical Context and Influences

• Modernist Roots: Dean’s work is firmly anchored in late modernism, reflecting her deep study of European and American art movements. This influence is particularly evident in the piece's bold use of color and its emphasis on formal elements – a hallmark of artists like Margo Lewers, known for her vibrant canvases and exploration of geometric abstraction.
• The Penrith Residency: The artwork’s genesis lies within Dean’s residency at the Penrith Regional Gallery, where she was tasked with examining the gallery's collection and engaging with its artistic heritage. This process fostered a critical approach to art history, prompting her to consider not just the aesthetic qualities of artworks but also their intellectual and philosophical contexts.
• Critical Dialogue: References to figures like Clement Greenberg and Terry Smith underscore Dean’s commitment to engaging with contemporary art theory. These critics provided frameworks for understanding modernism's relationship to culture, society, and the role of the artist.

Symbolic Resonance and Emotional Impact

While abstract in its execution, “After Margo Lewers” invites contemplation on themes of creation, disruption, and renewal. The circular form itself can be interpreted as a symbol of wholeness or the cyclical nature of time. The vibrant colors evoke feelings of energy, joy, and perhaps even a touch of controlled chaos – mirroring the dynamism inherent in modern art’s exploration of subjective experience. This piece is more than just a decorative element; it's an invitation to engage with the complex history and enduring relevance of modernist artistic vision.