Peter Halley: A Monograph

Peter Halley used fluorescent colors and Roll-A-Tex to deconstruct early and mid-twentieth-century transcendent geometric abstraction into abstract cells and prisons, and by adding conduits to access outside forces. Robert Hobbs' monograph analyzes Halleys geometric and highly keyed art in terms of opportunities provided by the Internet, aesthetic possibilities afforded by Photoshop, timely relevance advanced by Michel Foucaults and Jean Baudrillards sociological theories, and conundrums presented by science fiction and physics.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 07 March 2024
Publisher: Hirmer Verlag

In the vibrant 1980s, artist Peter Halley embarked on a transformative journey that breathed new life into the realm of painting. By delving into the realms of sociology and science fiction, Halley sought to unravel the complexities of transcendent geometric abstraction from the early to mid-twentieth century. Through his innovative use of fluorescent colours and Roll-A-Tex, he deconstructed these abstract forms into abstract cells and prisons, inviting viewers to explore the interplay between structure and freedom.

Halley's artistic vision extended beyond mere deconstruction, as he incorporated conduits that allowed him to tap into the imaginative forces of the outside world. This fusion of art and technology blurred the boundaries between analogue and digital realms, creating a unique space where the physical and virtual coexisted.

In the face of the challenges posed by the Information Age and French poststructuralism, Halley strategically positioned his painting on the dividing line between analogue and digital worlds. Robert Hobbs, in his comprehensive monograph, delved into the intricate geometric and highly keyed art of Halley, exploring the opportunities provided by the Internet, the aesthetic possibilities afforded by Photoshop, the timely relevance advanced by sociological theories of Michel Foucault and Jean Baudrillard, and the conundrums presented by both science fiction and physics.

Through his multidisciplinary approach, Halley not only challenged traditional artistic conventions but also embraced the possibilities of the digital age. His work resonated with audiences, sparking discussions about the role of art in a rapidly evolving world and the interplay between technology, society, and the human imagination.

Peter Halley's legacy continues to inspire artists and thinkers alike, as he remains a pioneer in the exploration of the boundaries between art and technology. His innovative use of materials and techniques paved the way for new artistic expressions and pushed the boundaries of what was possible in the visual arts.

Weight: 1570g
Dimension: 245 x 288 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783777441672