The artwork titled “St Ishmael’s” by Graham Sutherland, created in 1976, belongs to the Surrealism art movement and is a figurative piece. The artwork is a captivating amalgamation of abstract elements and imaginative forms set against a predominantly green and yellow backdrop, evoking a sense of otherworldliness and dream-like ambiance.
The composition presents a surreal scene with organic, twisting forms and architectural elements interwoven seamlessly. Flora-like structures sprout in unexpected directions, adding to the surreal nature of the piece. In the midst of these shapes, a central, coiling form dominates the foreground, exhibiting intricate patterns and a seemingly translucent quality. At the periphery, geometric edifices reminiscent of modern sculptures subtly blend with the background, enhancing the sense of depth and complexity. The play of light and shadow accentuates the three-dimensionality of the forms, while the use of earthy tones creates a harmonious yet eerie environment. The overall effect of “St Ishmael’s” is a visually arresting and thought-provoking composition that is emblematic of Sutherland’s surrealist endeavors.
