Alison Turnbull

Turnbull’s abstract approach to painting produces a number of interesting pieces; transforming something that initially appears to serve a purely informative purpose, into art. She has the ability to evolve architectural plans and map-like structures into pretty and patterned décor pieces, marrying the natural lines and shape of visual information with the creative touch of an artist’s colour palette.

The pieces are reminiscent of Damien Hurst works such as Albumin, Human, Glycated and his famous pill print wallpaper. Similarly to these creations, Turnbull’s collection has a somewhat anatomical, clinical and mathematical quality. The power and beauty of the progressive flow of information is apparent throughout the exhibition. Whilst Turnbull’s works do add a new artistic dimension to what is often regarded as merely functional, and although the results make for a lovely gander round the Talbot Rice Gallery, the control and precision that are embraced as part of her style, may leave some uninspired.

Those who favour expression, vigour and spontaneity in art, may find the exhibition a tad too restrained. However, Turnbull’s work does raise intriguing questions about mixing that which is created to serve a practical purpose with the creativity of art. Perhaps as a result one of the two elements is at risk of being overshadowed by the other?