Lot 134: Arthur Giardelli (1911- 1999)

Arthur Giardelli (1911- 1999)
End of the Third Volume
mixed media
18 x 15 in. (45.7 x 38.1 cm.)
Conceived in 1971.

London, England & Co., Arthur Giardelli Retrospective, June - July 2001, catalogue not traced.

Arthur Giardelli started making his relief constructions in the mid-1950s in response to the impressive scenery of the Pembrokeshire coast where he lived and taught. His relief work interplays the rhythmic cycle of the sea with man's fascination with time. His assembleges often include watch parts and discarded books.

In conversation with Michael Denholm, Giaredelli comments on his work 'My picture doesn't say a word, it is simply there to be concentrated on. You see what you make of it' (M. Tooby, Arthur Giardelli: Paintings, Construction, Relief Sculptures: Converstaions with Derek Shiel, Bridgend, 2001, p. 144).
Giaredlli was an avid art collector, whose friends included Cedric Morris, David Jones, Josef Herman and Ceri Richards. He was Chairman of the influential 56 Group Wales and arranged exhibitions to promote artists in Europe.

In 1973 Giardelli received an MBE for his services to the arts. His work can be found in the Tate Gallery and National Museum of Wales.