Wishful

Like many Wellingtonians I first came across Carson’s paintings in the mid 1990s at the multi award winning Café Globe in upper Cuba St. Many a coffee was imbibed under a 3000 x 5000 mm painting called “The Wedding”. I was hooked! (not just to the coffee).

I was delighted when, in 2007, I heard of a survey of Carson’s paintings in the St. James Theatre Foyer. To view this incredible painting again was a brilliant experience, like having a good catch up with an old friend. I had come to know Carson’s works as imaginative masterpieces of contemporary surrealism so I wasn’t surprised by the quality of the other works on show, but what did strike me was the productivity of this obviously dedicated artist.  There were 84 works in the show, most of which he had borrowed back from private collections from around the country. Works ranged from a raw early drawn portrait, executed in 1984, to a freshly painted Madonna and child with an exquisite rubbed-Venetian-leather-like oil paint finish.

I was equally impressed when I learnt that although Carson had surrounded himself with artists and creative people his whole life he didn’t actually start painting until he turned forty. His pre-painting career was as a fine leather craftsman and designer.

Thematically Carson’s work often deals with social, cultural, political and personal issues. Obviously he has his specific intentions when painting but is also quite happy for people to view the works without much guidance and draw their own conclusions as to the meaning. He is an astounding visual story teller so narratives come easily.  

One of the things that make Carson’s work special is his ability to paint important, sometimes unsettling subjects, in an approachable and engaging way. His works are challenging and enjoyable to live with as many an avid collector will attest.  

This is the first dealer gallery show of Steve’s in 20 years and many of the works here are a result of his first full year back in NZ (Colville, Coromandel) after spending much of the preceding 7 years painting in Paris. When I established South Coast Gallery nearly four years ago I said to myself “I would love to have Steve Carson!”.