Review: Adam Taylor’s Our Mountain at &Gallery

Adam Taylor’s first solo exhibition Our Mountain offers a glimpse into the process in which he captures abstracted and empty dreamscapes inspired by the rugged coastal landscapes of Pembrokeshire in West Wales, where he resides. In his exploration of nature, Taylor balances the minimalism and abstraction that ground his atmospheric paintings with a methodical approach based upon principles of order.  

Taylor’s signature restrained blue-green palette evokes vast skies and barren lands, which he manipulates with both brush and rag to create abstract compositions. His decision to remove most of the initially applied paint from his canvases is a process of elimination and leaves only the essential traces of form and texture. 

This minimalist approach is reflected in the deliberate incompleteness of his work – layers of paint are stripped away, revealing the basic forms, shapes, and colours of nature. Taylor’s incorporation of grids and geometrical shapes introduces an element of structure, creating a distinct contrast with the otherwise open, fragmented landscapes.

The exhibition, while small, offers a sense of cohesion. The use of colour and form feels intentional, creating a narrative that connects each piece with the next. Although the exhibition’s minimalist style might not appeal to everyone, particularly those less inclined toward abstraction, there’s an undeniable harmony in how the pieces work together. 

Although the exhibition seems geared towards collectors, with prices ranging from £750 to £6,000, for those who appreciate contemporary abstraction and a connection to nature, Our Mountain offers a refined, albeit niche, experience.

Image via &Gallery.