 Cool Britannia Figural Surrealist Painting Shelley Acrylic Unframed 61 x 76cmDescription: A fine surrealist dreamscape in acrylic oil on artist's board dating to the late 20th Century, unframed - approx 24 X 30 inches (61 x 76cm). This is a fine bit of Cool Britannia art. It depicts the contorted figure of a puppeteer. His head is restricted by he angular planes of some form of cover, his mouth healed over his eyes are blank. His arms are spread out against a setting sun to provide the backdrop for the puppet scene. His clothing a form of harlequin. In his right hand he holds the strings of a human puppet the wades toward the viewer deep to his waist in a stylised stretch of water. His left forms the head of a snake. The sun glows red on the water. Date: Late 20th Century. Artist Biography: Peter John Elliott, better known by his painting name "Elliott Shelley" (born in Mangotsfield, Bristol 1924 - 2011), was an accomplished jazz musician and artist who attended the Royal Academy, later exhibiting at the R.W.A. and Royal Miniature Society. His challenging work, reminiscent of Francis Bacon, is thoroughly unique. He died in Frenchay Hospital. His beloved wife Edna Joan Elliott (Edna Joan Shelley) was his creative partner who also painted. "Many artists and musicians work within their comfort zone, producing work which appeals to the mass market or that sits with their paradigm of an orderly and benevolent world. For Elliott Shelley there is no comfort zone. His painting 'Outside Looking In' was exhibited by the Royal West of England Academy, and he has also exhibited for the Royal Miniature Society for three consecutive years. His music is created at the very interface of the human soul and a frequently hostile and unforgiving environment. By publishing some of his work on the internet, Elliott is sharing with us his perception of the struggle to survive, the struggle to fit in and the fight against greed, persecution and arrogance in a capitalist and materialistic society. Elliott Shelley's jazz soloing reflects the uncompromising creativity to be found in his art. With skills forged in the Soho Jazz clubs woking alongside some of the great world class players such as drummer Phil Seamen and alto sax player Joe Harriott, Elliott Shelley is truly one the outstanding players of his generation" Framing: None Condition: The painting is generally in good condition, having one or two minor abrasions and slight crackling in places, adding to character and authenticity. Dimensions: |