Denyse Thomasos: Just Beyond

Denyse Thomasos' paintings depict the unspeakable and unimaginable confinement in slave ships and prisons, challenging the limits of minimalism and abstraction. She uses pattern, scale, and repetition to convey the vastness of these events without exploiting the images of those affected.

Format: Hardback
Length: 180 pages
Publication date: 23 January 2023
Publisher: Distributed Art Publishers

Denyse Thomasos, a Trinidadian Canadian painter, forged a unique form of abstraction that vividly depicted the unspeakable and unimaginable confines of slave ships and prisons. Her monumental canvases, characterized by overlapping gridded lines, fluid drips of paint, and geometric architectural objects, pushed the boundaries of minimalism and abstraction while simultaneously embodying her unwavering commitment to social justice. Through her intricate patterns, precise scales, and repetitive motifs, Thomasos conveyed the vastness of historical events such as the Transatlantic slave trade and mass incarceration without exploiting the images of those affected by them. In her own words, she aimed to rebuild the fragmented psychology of slave culture, revealing its fragile foundation.

This retrospective publication, the first of its kind, offers a comprehensive exploration of Thomasos's artistic journey. A series of essays delve into her dissection of art historical traditions, her fascination with global architectures and physical structures of power and resistance, her deep interest in the history of slavery, and her unwavering dedication to exposing narratives of systemic racism.

Thomasos's paintings are characterized by their bold colors, intricate patterns, and commanding presence. They evoke a sense of unease and discomfort, challenging viewers to confront the harsh realities of history and the ongoing impact of systemic oppression. Through her art, Thomasos sought to inspire empathy, understanding, and action, urging us to confront the legacies of slavery and work towards a more just and equitable world.

In conclusion, Denyse Thomasos's art is a powerful testament to the transformative power of creativity and the urgent need for social justice. Her bold and uncompromising approach to abstraction challenged the boundaries of art and shed light on the hidden narratives of history. Through her dedication to exposing systemic racism and her commitment to rebuilding the fragmented psychology of slave culture, Thomasos left an indelible mark on the art world and inspired generations to come.

Weight: 1270g
Dimension: 267 x 264 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781636810812