From Feb. 16 to Aug. 21, Newport Street Gallery will display “The Cloud of Witness,” a large exhibition of paintings by Keith Cunningham. The collection of over 70 pieces offers a glimpse into the mind of an elusive member of the School of London.
Created during the post-war period, Cunningham’s paintings reflect the power and expressionism echoed by his contemporaries like Frank Auerbach and Francis Bacon. Through abstract brushstrokes and expertly applied swaths of color, Cunningham is able to explore the essence of his twisted subjects, including everything from gruesome depictions of fighting dogs to intimate and grieving portraits. The large collection of paintings included in the exhibition allows visitors to linger on sections of particular subjects and dissect multiple examples of how Cunningham captures the reality before him.
Originally from Sydney, Australia, Cunningham moved to London in 1949 to study graphic design at the age of 20. His artistic ambition not only drove him to graduate with a dissertation on architecture from the Central School of Art, but also to apply to the Royal College of Art where he was granted a traveling scholarship to Spain.
After graduation, Cunningham’s paintings were displayed in the most influential galleries in London and were included twice with the prestigious London Group. During this time, his work garnered positive receptions and critical acclaim while Cunningham began to work part-time as a lecturer of drawing and printing.
Cunningham’s success mounted as he left his impression on the artistic world, admired by critics and peers. Although not a household name, Cunningham’s talent might have propelled him into fame if he hadn’t withdrawn from the art world in 1967. No more paintings in galleries. No more public viewings.
For the five decades between 1967 and his death in 2014, Cunnigham produced massive amounts of works that all remained neatly stored in his flat and unseen. Until now. Cunningham’s estate remained undisclosed until his passing and these private paintings have been released to the public in Newport Street Gallery.
“The Cloud of Witness” possesses a unique opportunity for viewers to not only discover Keith Cunningham, but to be a part of his rediscovery. For more information on the exhibition, visit https://www.newportstreetgallery.com/exhibition/keith-cunningham-the-cloud-of-witness/.