Mark "Max" Maxwell

Mark Maxwell’s paintings often evoke abstract landscapes.

For several years he has been working with fabricated aluminium panels rather than the usual stretched canvas over a wooden frame.

The body of the painting is usually created with the application of metal leaf (copper and silver) gilded directly onto the exposed aluminium and then oil paints applied directly on to them. The paintings are protected by a clear enamel coating which also enables the paintings to be exhibited in exterior locations as they are naturally resilient to weather conditions and temperature.

His work is often commissioned by both business and residential clients and can be seen in locations such as boardrooms, hotels and yachts.

Often his paintings are inspired by his video projects. Recent video installations involve the transformation of metals using the technique of electrolysis. A process first explored by the artist in 1993.

Reactions often unseen under normal practices are made visible to the eye with the accurate positioning of video cameras. Metals submerged in liquid slowly break down under an electric current and particles are transferred to the charged electrodes.

As the metals go through various colour changes and the particles break away and travel through the liquid, the viewer witnesses a beautiful unfolding scene depicting unusual subterranean landscapes. These scenes will often inspire the content of his paintings… abstract landscapes seemingly in a state of flux undergoing a chemical patination. Mark Maxwell initially worked as assistant to artist musician Brian Eno on a series of projects relating to set and lighting designs for live musical performances entitled 'Opal Evenings'. The designs would incorporate sculptural suspended forms with light projections. A series of projects followed with Maxwell creating concepts for pop videos, contemporary dance, exhibitions and live events such as Amnesty International.

More recently the artist has concentrated on site specific installations.