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Greek
And Turkish Forms

Created between 1967-8, Ben Nicholson’s Greek and Turkish Forms is an evocative series of etchings that explores the architectural and cultural motifs of the Aegean region. Through this series, Nicholson abstracts elements from Greek and Turkish architectural landscapes, creating compositions that are both serene and structurally complex. The series includes prints including Two Turkish Forms and Patmos Monastery, each showcasing his minimalist approach to form and space.

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Meaning & Analysis

Nicholson's series is a profound study in the abstraction of cultural and historical forms, where the essence of Greek and Turkish architectural and natural elements are distilled into shapes and lines. Nicholson’s etchings, such as Turkish Sundial, Column and Tree, utilises a minimalist composition that focuses on the interplay between shape, line, and the negative space of the etching paper. This reduction emphasises the pure visual elements of the subjects, stripping away context to highlight architectural and structural beauty.

The intricate medium of etching allows Nicholson to explore the fine details and textures of his subjects. His control over the etching process is evident in the delicate lines and subtle layering of images, which convey depth and perspective. The use of etching also adds a tactile quality to the prints, enhancing the viewer's sensory experience of the artwork.

Notable Collections