Lot 30: PHILIP CLAIRMONT (1949 - 84), Portrait of Viki

PHILIP CLAIRMONT (1949 - 84), Portrait of Viki, Woodcut, edition of 5,, Signed, inscribed Portrait of Viki & dated 1967, 67 x 25.5

Philip Clairmont is commonly associated with vibrantly coloured, textural canvases, but his stark and challenging prints also represent an essential part of his oeuvre. His works are an uncompromising and intricate portrayal of his emotional and subjective experience, regardless of their medium. Clairmont is New Zealand’s fundamental expressionist and Portrait of Viki is fundamental Clairmont. The portrait is a brutally graphic rendering, composed of hasty, jagged edges. It pays careful stylistic homage to some of Clairmont’s early artistic heroes - the German Expressionists Max Beckmann and Ludwig Kirchner. It remains, however, primarily a tribute to his partner Viki and a totem to their shared experience. While Viki wears a disquieting gaze, she still possesses a reticent tenderness and humanity. Any formality imposed by the use of strict geometry is in contention with the abundance of emotion that emanates from the work. These conflicts culminate in a portrait that demonstrates an intense physical presence. Portrait of Viki was completed in 1969. The same year saw Clairmont married to Viki, and the birth of their daughter. This deeply personal work allows the audience an insight into the ardent passion and tumultuous intimacy shared by artist and muse. Amidst drastic personal changes 1969 was also monumental in Clairmont’s professional development. Martin Edmond suggests it is “the year in which Clairmont’s mature work really begins”. Though only 19 when the print was produced, the human sensitivity that would continue to envelope his future works is strikingly present. Portrait of Viki was exhibited in Clairmont’s first solo show which took place in 1970 when he was in his honours year of Art School at Ilam. Notably, two of his tutors purchased work from the show - Bill Sutton and Doris Lusk. From an edition of only five (of which it is doubtful all have survived) this is an early, intimate and exceedingly rare Clairmont work.