KELLY JOHN GOUGH (b.1972)

 

ARTIST PROFILE

What does it mean to be human? It’s a question we have been asking for thousands of years. Priests and poets, philosophers and politicians, scientists and artists have all sought to answer this ultimate puzzle but all fell short.

I’m this collection of works Kelly merely seeks to capture the essence of the individual represented. To portray a small part of them and convey it to the viewer, whether a portrait, a nude or a sculpture. In doing so he hopes to show the humanity with in the sitter.

Bold oils on a raw backdrop of wood panel; elegantfigures with a provocative, erotic edge – Kelly JohnGough’s artwork embodies a breathtaking joining ofjuxtapositions. Inspired by the human form, Kellypaints striking nudes and portraits with acomposition enriched by strong chiaroscuro,exciting areas of negative space and the naturalgrain and knots of his signature pine panel canvas. Born in South Africa, Kelly has been painting since he could walk. After studying graphic design and working in the publishing and production industry for 12 years, Kelly embraced his first love full-time in 2001. Since then, Kelly has enjoyed exhibitions at a number of prestigious galleries,hotels and boutiques across South Africa. Kelly offers ready-to-hang works as well as private commission.