For this exhibition at Willesden Gallery Alexandra Baraitser has brought together a series of paintings that like Edward Hopper's or Alex Katz's works capture a moment in time as if it was in a film still. Alexandra Baraitser's bright and complex pieces celebrate the contemporary world.
Over the years her work has shifted from photorealism to a more abstract form of expression, with fluid brush strokes emphasising the contrast of light and shade. Many of her paintings depict classics by famous twentieth century designers such as Charles and Ray Eames and Poul Henningsen. In talking about her practice, Baraitser explains how painting gives her a voice and helps her to find new ways to express ideas a bout contemporary culture and modernism.
Entering into one of Alexandra Baraitser's paintings we find ourselves in a different world altogether one that is beautiful, modern and unique. Baraitser takes inspiration from twentieth century design and in particular the Bauhaus movement and classic 1950s interiors. Her canvases are based on photographs from period design catalogues, magazines and newspaper images that
she feels jump off the page or have something in their composition that interests her.
The Artist
Alexandra Baraitser is a curator, painter, and founder of the Bricklayers Brunch Artists Network. She studied painting at Chelsea College of Art (1995) and went on to win The Abbey Scholarship in Painting at The British School at Rome (1997). In 199 8 she was shortlisted for The John Moores Painting prize and The Natwest Art Prize. Alexandra’s work was recently selected for the ArtCan Open at Trinity Art Gallery and The Cambridge Show at Kettles Yard. Her work is exhibited widely and she is represented by Tyrrell Art Gallery.