Heart's Tongue at Mermaid Theatre Gallery 1996

From 13th November 1996 to 30th January 1997 the Mermaid presented an exhibition of sensual and ethereal abstract works by Ashley Davies entitled Heart's Tongue. This was the first one woman show for Ashley whose abstract canvases take their inspiration from the rural views gained from her studio window.

The multiple interpretations captured on canvas stimulate the creation of an internal rather than an external vista for the viewer. This is due to the metaphysical quality of Ashley's work as the planes of colour coax the onlooker into evoking their own reflections on personal memory. Rich, thick areas of paint draw the viewer into a world of illumination and incorporeality where the heart communicates to all of the senses in a manner that defies definition.

Leonora 6'x 4' 1996	Monique 2'x 2' 1996
Hordeum 1996	Hollow 16"x 16" 1996

The Press Release for Heart's Tongue follows:

The collection of 50 new paintings featured in The Mermaid Theatre Gallery exhibition have all been inspired by one view from Ashley Davies's studio - that of forest land bordering on the edge of London. However the rainbow of interpretations captured on canvas stimulate the creation of an internal rather than an external vista for the viewer. This is due to the metaphysical quality of Ashley's work as the planes of colour coax the onlooker into evoking their own reflections on their personal memory. Rich, thick areas of paint draw the viewer in to a world of illumination and incorporeality where the 'heart' communicates to all of the senses in a manner that defies definition.

Ashley Davies employs an effervescent use of light which appears to radiate from behind the blocks of colour causing the canvas to expand like the horizon. Even smaller works open up the possibility of entering into a panoramic atmosphere.

Ashley Davies paints by means of a stream of consciousness. She is affected by mood which is generally one of warmth yet unavoidably other influences creep in and manifest themselves on the canvas. Glowing patches of colour are consequently seen surrounded by areas of darkness as if protective of the space of peace. The application of paint parallels this duality, with it sometimes being physical and aggressive and at others sensitive and gently controlled.

Ashley Davies' paintings demonstrate a serious talent. Her exhibition at the Mermaid Theatre Gallery marks her first major solo show after many successful group displays in and around London. Her work reveals a depth of insight which is both intoxicating and liberating.