[ Nigel O’Neill ]

Nigel O’Neill makes abstract paintings which consist of a number vibrant coloured planes. The shape of these planes evokes a perspective and illusionistic space; however, this is undermined by the juxtaposition of different colours. The edges of each plane are pushed back or forward depending on the colour of adjacent planes.,therefore, seemingly flat shapes appear to twist and flip back on themselves. This achieves a surface, which is simultaneously asserted and denied, undermining any logical or mathematical interpretation of the work. This is complemented by the overall shape of the painting support, giving many opportunities for the interplay of spatially ambiguous planes. Each painting endeavours to achieve a compelling physical presence through its ambiguous internal spatial relationships.