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Brief Encounter

Brief Encounter

Artist (Glasgow, Scotland, born 1961)
Date1990
Mediumphotopiece on paper
ClassificationsPaintings And Drawings
Dimensions196 × 156cm
241 × 197cm
196 × 156cm
AcquisitionPurchased in 1991 with assistance from the National Fund for Acquisitions.
Copyright© Calum Colvin (2002)
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDAG009629
Keywords
About MeColvin constructs complex scenes in his studio then reproduces them in large-scale photographs. They bring together familiar fragments of western culture and kitsch.

Humour masks deeper themes of national identity, politics, art history, sexuality and beliefs: Adam and Eve live side by side with dinosaurs; the kilted Action Man toy raises questions about Scottishness and masculinity. Painted figures sprawl across different objects, challenging our perception of three-dimensional space.

As part of Aberdeen Art Gallery’s plus music playlists, Art Chat is an engaging series of short audio interpretations offering children’s perspectives of individual artworks. Young peoples’ voices are an integral part of the community and we wanted to offer primary aged learners the opportunity to voice their thoughts and opinions about a selection of artworks from the Aberdeen Art Gallery collection.

Learners from Aberdeen’s Heathryburn School took part in discussions and activities to look for themes, symbols and clues within a selection of artworks. Learners were given the opportunity to work co-operatively with their classmates and gallery staff to explore their thoughts and feelings by responding to real works of art at Aberdeen Treasure Hub. These activities supported creative skills and helped to build learners’ confidence in talking about art.

Alongside the image of this object you can now listen to their interpretation of Colvin's work.
More About Me
Each scene is composed from miniature items set within an enclosed space. Can you imagine being the artist, and putting each piece together? You'd have to be very careful not to knock it all over!
Exhibitions