Euan Uglow: A Retrospective at MK Gallery

The retrospective of Euan Uglow at MK Gallery in Milton Keynes presents a comprehensive look at the artist's work, spanning his career from the late 1940s until his death in 2000. The exhibition opens with a somewhat unconventional display, featuring seven paintings, of which only two are by Uglow himself. This initial room sets the stage for a deeper exploration of Uglow's artistic evolution, influenced by notable figures such as Paul Cézanne and Alberto Giacometti.

The Guardian

Uglow studied at the Camberwell School of Arts and Crafts and later at the Slade School of Fine Art. By 1959, he had established a studio in Battersea, London, where he began to develop a distinctive style characterized by meticulous observation and a labor-intensive approach to painting. His works often depict the female form, with a central room in the exhibition dedicated to large-scale nudes that evoke a sense of static tension, contrasting with the vibrancy of his earlier pieces.

The Guardian

Uglow's demanding process is evident in works like "Three in One" (1967-68), which required multiple models over an extended period. His commitment to detail often led to unfinished portraits, as seen with Cherie Blair, who posed for him before withdrawing due to the time constraints of his rigorous methodology. Critics note that while Uglow's paintings exhibit moments of brilliance, such as the intimate portrayal of a model's foot in "Pepe’s Painting" (1984-85), his serious approach can detract from the viewer's experience.

The Guardian

The exhibition raises questions about the balance between technique and emotional engagement in art. Critics argue that Uglow's meticulous methodology can sometimes overshadow the vitality of his subjects. The final works displayed, including still lifes like "Mouse Loaf" (1991-92), reflect a culmination of his fastidiousness, with the artist's insistence on perfection leading to a sense of lifelessness in the art.

The Guardian

The exhibition has garnered mixed reviews, with some praising Uglow's dedication to craft while others critique the lack of emotional resonance in his work. One critic remarked, “Too much methodology sucks the life out of art,” highlighting the tension between Uglow's technical precision and the viewer's emotional engagement.

The Guardian

• “I want the brain to intervene between the observation and the mark.” — Euan Uglow

The Guardian

• “The proper subject of a painting is painting itself. It’s not what gets painted that matters, it’s how.” — Euan Uglow

The Guardian

Euan Uglow's retrospective at MK Gallery serves as a testament to his commitment to the craft of painting, showcasing both the beauty and the challenges of his artistic philosophy. While the exhibition highlights the meticulous nature of his work, it also invites reflection on the balance between technique and emotional expression in the realm of contemporary art.

The Guardian