Mezzotint exhibition

Press, 31 May 1984, Page 20

Mezzotint exhibition

Kathryn Madill "Mezzotints” at the Gingko Gallery, until June 7. Reviewed by John Harrell.

The 18 Mezzotint engravings presented here are distinctive because of thendepiction of directional and atmospheric light, which is dramatically contrasted with velvety inks, ranging from very dark greens to blackish reds. Carefully drawn with the forms intelligently positioned, her meticulous draughtsmanship is occasionally reminiscent of that of Tony Fomison, as is her use of light. It is used as a means of revealing the forms of the people and objects she depicts. Often however, there is an emphasis on shape and pattern rather than form

within what are usually illustrative works. Indeed, while these prints have an appeal by way of. the dramatic contrasts caused by the soft light, they do not really go beyond being suited- as drawings for chilldren’s storybooks. They seem too carefully controlled, slightly cosy, and at times wooden, to successfully allow many emotional resonances outside that of a wide-eyed innocence.

Probably the most intriguing prints are those featuring the images, of dancers. They have an element of fantasy and suggestion of movement which provides a sense of unexpected drama. “Approach” is a fascinating work, drawn from the artist’s point of view as she is looking down

burnishing a plate. At the edge of the table in front of her is a small tilted mirror, reflecting a ring of swirling dancers in motion behind her. This image seems to reveal some of the inherent contradictions of art-making and how selfdiscipline is necessary to follow an arduous task through, even though the artist often longs to be free to be able to run away and participate in something else.

Because of its techniques, this is an unusual show. It contains some nice images with touches of humour, but very few go beyond that to making lasting impressions. It is this lack of risk which tends to limit these works from an undoubtedly capable and confident imagemaker.