Jack Shanahan
24 November 2007 - 20 January 2008
Jack Shanahan has drawn for as long as he can remember. When this exhibition of his work was held at Kettle’s Yard, Jack was aged 24.
An ardent Manchester United supporter, musician and fan of ’50s and ’60s rock and roll, his other interests often crop up in his work. More often, he picks up on something he notices – the swing in his grandparents’ garden, a fire hydrant sign or traffic lights. Another time, the shape of a number or a letter may trigger a pattern.
Beginning with black outlines, he likens some of his drawings to stained glass, setting colour against colour to see how they react to each other and how they can suggest three-dimensional space. Jack believes that art is for enjoyment and these drawings are redolent of acute and affectionate observation.